Reeves also asked for schools that are closed to in-person instruction to be opened. However, he said that mask wearing will still need to be worn in schools, colleges, universities and some “close contact” businesses like salons and barbershops. Reeves stated that it can be done safely – it’s been proved. Reeves’ decision not to remove the state-wide mask mandate is concerning as similar mandates are still in place in over 30 other states. Mississippi is the first state that has canceled a statewide mandate to remove masks. The mandate was extended by the governor of Alabama into November on Wednesday. Reeves issued an executive directive on Aug. 4, mandating the wearing of masks in public. He had previously issued mask mandates county-by-county after COVID-19 patients and hospitalizations spiked in these areas. Reeves stated that he believes most Mississippians will continue wearing masks in public. Reeves stated, “I believe masks work.” “I believe that the facts and data across the country and in our state prove it. I plan to continue wearing one, and I believe most people in the state will. Reeves said, “It’s smart, prudent, and wise to do so.” He has been criticised for not wearing a mask at crowds and events. Reeves’ executive orders, which were issued Wednesday, will be in effect through Nov. 11. They replace all prior ones dating back to March. Other restrictions are relaxed, such as increasing attendance at outdoor K-12 football games by 50% and raising the limits on group gatherings from 20 indoors to 100 outdoors. Stadium seating will be limited to 25% for college and university football games. Attendees will need to wear masks when entering and moving around the stadium. Indoor club areas can hold a maximum capacity of 75%. Tailgating is still prohibited. Reeves was also criticised for being too slow to implement shutdowns and restrictions, as well as being too strict. Reeves stated Wednesday that he had always tried to balance his decisions and that guidelines were better than mandates. “We must trust the people in this country to look after themselves,” Reeves added. Reeves’ Wednesday press conference was attended by Dr. Thomas Dobbs (State Health Officer). He did not answer clearly when asked if he supported the removal of the state mask mandate. While he is encouraged that schools will continue to require masks, he said that he understood the arguments for personal liberty. He stated that he will continue wearing a mask. The daily average number of COVID-19 cases has remained stable at 400 to 500 since a sharp drop in cases between late August and early September. The average daily case number for the seventh day was 1,382 per person in late July. The state Health Department reported Wednesday 552 new cases, 12 deaths, and a total of 98,190 Mississippi cases.