The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance that allows officials to fine people and businesses for violating coronavirus pandemic health orders, such as not wearing masks and not practicing social distancing.
For individuals, the fines are $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $500 for a third offense. For businesses, the fines are much steeper, starting at $250 and going up to $1,000.
People and businesses can appeal the fines, but that will require filing a written appeal within 10 days.
Many are saying that the fines are flat out unconstitutional, but county officials say they are a necessary tool to bring COVID-19 infections down.
What do you think? Do you think that fining people will help or not?
Carolyn McArdle talked about it on the air! Listen below...