Los Angeles County health officials warned Friday that people are circulating bogus “Face Mask Exempt” cards, claiming they will get people out of wearing a face covering despite state and local orders.
“These flyers and cards are NOT from a government agency and are not endorsed by the Department of Justice or any Los Angeles County department,” according to the county Department of Public Health Twitter page.
“Cloth face coverings MUST be worn anytime residents are around others not from their household, except by children under 2 and individuals with medical conditions that prevent use of a face covering,” county officials said.
Health officials posted photos of the phony cards, one of which is laminated and states in bold print, “I AM EXEMPT FROM ANY ORDINANCE REQUIRING FACE MASK USAGE IN PUBLIC.” The cards warn that anyone harassing the card holder could be subject to penalties of the Department of Justice and face fines of up to $150,000.
County officials stamped the photos “FAKE.”