(INDIANAPOLIS) – Indiana's mandatory mask order went into effect on Monday.

Governor Eric Holcomb signed an Executive Order last Friday, which will be in effect until at least August 26. He says masks work in slowing down the spread of COVID-19. ...... {LISTEN}.

Statistics show that the positivity rate in Indiana more than doubled last month. Last week, the Hoosier State saw the largest daily increase in new COVID-19 cases since the pandemic started.

Masks or face coverings are required for anyone 8 years of age or older in public. That includes public outdoor areas, public transportation and when social distancing is not possible. Masks will also be mandatory for all students in third grade and above. This includes faculty, staff, volunteers and others who may be in school for any activity.

The order has exceptions for medical purposes, exercising and eating and drinking. Initially, Holcomb said that not wearing a mask where it is required would be a Class B misdemeanor. However, that is no longer the case.

Holcomb says it was expected that cases would increase when the State opened back up.