Papillion to vote on mask mandate Monday as other cities weigh options

The Papillion City Council will vote on a potential city-wide mask mandate on Monday after the local Board of Health voted to support such a measure. 

The health board also recommended to fast track the measure and waive second and third readings before the council, with the mask mandate to take affect immediately after council approval.

Seven of Nebraska's 10 largest cities, and 11 of the top 25, have voted to approve mask mandates, meaning that over half of the state's population is required to wear masks in public indoor spaces. A total of 15 Nebraska cities have approved mask ordinances, but none is west of Kearney. 

Local leaders in North Platte, Scottsbluff, Gering, Alliance and McCook say they are encouraging mask use but not requiring it. Sidney officials told News Channel Nebraska earlier this week that they have taken the issue under consideration but have no plans to introduce a mask mandate at this time.

Scottsbluff is still considering a mandate, but does not currently have a vote scheduled to decide one. Bellevue is also considering potential mandates. Fremont passed a mask mandate on Friday, meaning eight of Nebraska's 10 largest cities have enacted such measures.