ENFIELD — Police Chief Roy Holland says “several” Enfield businesses received written warnings after employees declined to wear face masks while interacting with the public.
The warnings came after police attempted to first educate businesses about an emergency gubernatorial order mandating some employees — such as those in the retail and restaurant industry — use face coverings while in contact with customers, Holland said via phone Tuesday afternoon.
He declined to name the businesses, saying criminal charges haven’t yet been brought against any Enfield establishment.
New Hampshire’s “Stay at Home 2.0” reopening plan calls on employees in several sectors to wear masks over their nose and mouths. That includes those in the food-service, retail and campground sectors. Those found violating the order could face criminal charges, including fines up to $20,000.
Holland said he started hearing complaints about Enfield businesses late last week, with a “handful” coming in through the Memorial Day weekend.
The first time police hear of a complaint, they attempt to educate the business on New Hampshire’s requirements, he said.
“If they then are still not complying with the emergency order, we speak to the Attorney General’s Office,” Holland said. “Then they either ask us to give (the business) a written warning or they take it from there.”
“There are several in Enfield have we educated and still didn’t comply,” he added.
Holland said the police department will continue to investigate complaints it receives. People can also contact the Attorney General’s Office by emailing EO40issues@doj.nh.gov or calling 603-271-1225.
Correction
People with c oncerns that businesses are violating New Hampshire’s “Stay at Home 2.0” reopening plan can email the state Attorney General’s Office at EO40issues@doj.nh.gov. An earlier version of this story provided an incorrect email address.