Should panhandlers get free face masks during the Covid19 crisis?
A Worcester City Councilor, Moe Bergman has filed a measure that would do just that. Bergman says that panhandlers due little in the way of social distancing when looking for money and the measure would be done in the name of public safety.
In a separate measure, the Councilor is also asking the City Manager to mandate a temperature check of all patrons entering stores.
That is not mandated by state law or by any of the Executive Orders from the Governor. But Bergman told the Worcester Telegram that doesn't mean they can't go a step further than what the state would mandate.
City Manager Ed Augustus has taken both measures under advisement and says he will research the ramifications. But he also says he is hesitant to demand anything of business owners in what are tough financial times for everyone.
The City Manager hasn't said when he would come back with his followup report.
(Picture provided by Worcester City Hall)