New York City imposes $1,000 fine for people who refuse to wear masks in public as ‘cases rise’ from a test not testing for the ‘virus’

New York City residents will face a hefty fine if they refuse to wear a mask in public this fall, according to Democratic Mayor Bill de Blasio.

People who refuse to wear a mask or face covering will be fined up to $1,000, NPRreported. The policy was announced after New York City officials announced a spike in the local positivity rate for coronavirus tests.

“We don’t want to fine people, but if we have to, we will,” de Blasio said during a press conference on Tuesday.

Every New Yorker should get tested for COVID-19, especially if you live in any of those 9 zip codes.

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) September 29, 2020

Read more: New York City imposes $1,000 fine for people who refuse to wear masks in public as ‘cases rise’ from a test not testing for the ‘virus’