LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — A Lexington Fayette Urban County Government ordinance passed years ago was probably done so with good intentions.
“Section 14-12 – Disguises” makes it unlawful for anyone over the age of 12 to wear a identity-concealing mask or disguise which covers their face. Punishment for being caught doing so can include a fine, imprisonment, or both.
Again, probably well-intentioned when debated and written years ago, but antiquated now.
“No one would think in this day and age, with a global pandemic, that someone wearing a mask would be ticketed,” Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said.
Gorton spoke about the ordinance following a swearing in ceremony for Councilmember Mark Swanson, who officially assumed his role in Lexington’s 3rd District on Monday morning. Wearing a mask – which Gorton said she is doing - to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 is certainly allowed in Lexington, regardless of age. And there’s actually something to consider about wearing masks, that might even supersede a city ordinance.
“I checked with my commissioner of public safety, and the police chief, and I was told it was deemed unconstitutional a few years ago. So that’s why it’s not enforced,” Gorton confirmed.
