Prohibition on mandatory use of face mask, face shield, or other face covering

Ark. Code Ann. § 20-7-144 — under State Board of Health — Department of Health.

Ark. Code Ann. § 20-7-144

(a) The General Assembly reserves the right to enact legislation regarding the mandatory use of face masks, face shields, or other face coverings.

(b) A state agency or entity, a political subdivision of the state, or a state or local official shall not mandate an individual in this state to use a face mask, face shield, or other face covering.

(c) The use of a face mask, face shield, or other face covering shall not be a condition for entry, education, or services.

(d) If a state agency or entity, a political subdivision of the state, or a state or local official recommends that an individual in this state use a face mask, face shield, or other face covering, a state agency or entity, a political subdivision of the state, or a state or local official shall provide notice that the recommendation is not mandatory.

(e) This section does not apply to a face covering requirement imposed by:(1) A private business;(2) A state-owned or state-controlled healthcare facility;(3) A facility operated by the Department of Corrections; or(4) A facility operated by the Division of Youth Services.

(1) A private business;

(2) A state-owned or state-controlled healthcare facility;

(3) A facility operated by the Department of Corrections; or

(4) A facility operated by the Division of Youth Services.