Anyone entering Kentucky executive branch buildings or offices, and in state vehicles where another employee is present, must wear a face covering. The new rule begins July 29.

The announcement sent to state employees during a Wednesday afternoon email states: “This policy will serve to protect employees and visitors from any individual who has become infected with the coronavirus but does not yet demonstrate symptoms of the illness.”

The policy impacts both the vaccinated and unvaccinated.

“Employees who can safely practice social distancing in their office or work location may remove their face covering,” the email explains.

Additionally, employees can request permission not to wear a facial covering. They must file with human resources if an underlying medical condition prohibits wearing a mask.

“Employees who do not comply with this policy may be removed from executive branch buildings/offices and may be subject to corrective or disciplinary action,” according to the email.

Monday, Governor Andy Beshear recommended schools require masks when classes resume in the coming weeks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) followed suit the next day. Wednesday, Beshear posted a YouTube video to address state employees in which he cited increased cases of COVID-19 for the new rule.

The CDC also updated its guidance Tuesday to recommend all individuals wear a mask indoors in parts of the country with “substantial” or “high” community transmission of COVID-19. All but 18 Kentucky counties currently fall in one of those categories.