A MESSAGE FROM THE POLICE CHIEF - ENFORCEMENT OF REQUIREMENT THAT BUSINESS EMPLOYEES WEAR FACE MASKS

Hello Enfield,

I know there has been some concern and questions raised on the Listserv and social media about compliance with the Governor’s Emergency Order #40 and the Stay At Home 2.0. To clarify, the order requires all employees of certain businesses (retail, restaurants, etc.) to wear a cloth facemask at all times when they do/can have contact with customers.

I want to reassure everyone that the Town is taking appropriate action regarding reported violations of the order. The Police Department is working closely with the Town’s Health Inspector in following up on violation reports. Violations are being documented and we are in contact with the Attorney General’s office. 

There have been some questions about why the Police Department and not the Health Inspector alone has been carrying out enforcement with respect to these complaints. This is because it is a criminal violation to not adhere to a Governor emergency order (RSA 21-P:47), and as such needs to be handled by law enforcement. The Attorney General’s office has set up a specific process for handling the violations. The process is being followed and those businesses that continue to violate the order can be issued fines up to $20,000 by the AG’s office. 

If you observe a violation of the order and want to report it the AG’s office, you can do so by contacting the following: email EO40issues@dos.nh.gov or call 603-271-1225

Thank you, and we hope everyone continues to adhere to any and all applicable laws and public health guidelines to promote health and safety.

Roy Holland
Chief of Police
Enfield Police Department