City of Lethbridge vote unanimously to repeal face covering bylaw

Lethbridge City Council has officially voted unanimously to repeal the mandatory face covering bylaw. Starting July 1, people in Lethbridge will not have to wear a mask when going out into public spaces. 

In an effort to ensure consistent enforcement and understanding of public safety messaging, Lethbridge City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday for the Temporary Mandatory Face Coverings Bylaw to be repealed on July 1, the same day Alberta enters Stage 3.  

Along with Lethbridge, both Edmonton and the Town of Taber among other places have repealed their mask bylaw ahead of July 1. 

Tuesday’s hearing carried all three readings unanimously. 

Mayor Chris Spearman says council is still concerned with the Province’s leadership if a fourth wave was to occur in the fall.

In advance to Tuesday’s meeting, four physicians from Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge sent council a letter asking them to repeal the bylaw as they felt the health measures were no longer necessary. 

However, masking will still be required in specific settings, as determined by the Government of Alberta, including continuing care settings, as well as on public transit. 

All current restrictions remain in effect until July 1, which coincides with Stage 3 of Alberta’s Open for Summer Plan.