On November 16, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced that the state of Iowa would have a mask mandate. The mandate would require groups of people indoors and within 6 feet for 15 minutes or more to wear a mask if they are not in the same family. Additionally, she ordered bars to close after 10 p.m. The Governor placed a limit of 15 people indoors and 30 people outdoors for all social gatherings. Reynolds suspended all sport and recreational facilities. She also stated that “all high school sports and other extracurricular activities are not suspended at this time.”

Spectators at games or events will be limited to two people per student and are required to wear a mask. This mandate will be active till December 10.

Governor Reynolds said in her address that “the same requirements apply to visitors and employees inside state buildings. And as I said last night I strongly encourage other businesses to follow the lead.” It is unclear if she plans on enforcing businesses to follow this mandate or if it is up to the individual companies.