Oklahoma governor ‘not going to mandate’ masks statewide

(AP) — Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt says he is “not going to mandate” that masks be worn statewide in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus, even though the White House coronavirus task force recommended such a rule. Stitt said during a news conference Tuesday that residents should voluntarily wear masks, socially distance and frequently wash their hands. The White House task force has since early August recommended a statewide mask mandate, closing bars and limiting occupancy in restaurants. The Oklahoma State Department of Health on Tuesday reported 59,399 confirmed coronavirus cases and 809 deaths.