Changing mask rules call for flexibility instead of temper tantrums
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The changes in mask rules as the COVID-19 crisis starts to come under control will still have an evolving timeline, but for some people it's become the fuel for conflicts.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is ending the strict rules for masks if someone is vaccinated, outside or with other vaccinated people. Each state and local region is still deciding what the rules will be in their areas, possibly based on their vaccination report card and infection rates.
As people move about, some have engaged in disputes with business owners holding the line on masks, and at times tempers have flared up with responses laced in foul language.
Several Santa Barbara business owners report angry customers, especially on the weekends, when the mask requirement has been enforced in line with the Santa Barbara County Health Department protocols.
One customer who was refused admission to a State Street business over the mask issue, reportedly ripped the sign off the wall and through it on the ground.
Another berated the owner of a downtown Santa Barbara music business with F-words. Nether got their way.
On his bike downtown Warner Carr said, "we need to respect all the laws. We need to respect all the people."
No matter how the mask rules change, some people say they will be able to handle it without a hassle.
"If they request for you to wear your mask fine but I am glad to hear it is opening up," said Carr.
In the State Street promenade, it's a good example of how people cooperate with regulations and signage of any kind. In the zone where bikes should be walked, that's not always the case.
"It's like you know you see people riding through here when it is obviously you're supposed walk it. People are going to do what they wanna do, " said Ken Reed.
A visiting nurse Kara Esh was with a group and not wearing a mask. She had one in her pocket. "Sometimes I do go in to see what they tell me."
Nearby another man said he has a mask ready and "I put it up just to be courteous."
This comes at a time when Governor Gavin Newsom is set to reopen California in about a month after seeing dropping rates of the coronavirus throughout the state.
