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Hillsborough County curfew now in effect as leaders consider mandatory masks

The curfew runs each night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

TAMPA, Fla. — If you're getting a bit stir crazy and were hoping to see local governments start pulling back on their efforts to contain the coronavirus, today is not your day.

Hillsborough County leaders voted 5-3 to enact a curfew after they heard of people still gathering in groups despite the safer at home orders. It will extend from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., and it takes effect tonight: Monday, April 13.

The Emergency Policy Group said enforcement will be handled mostly through education and encouragement, but law enforcement does have the power to detain people who refuse to follow the rules.

People still can go to the grocery store, pharmacy or to/from another essential activity during the curfew hours.

It's not the only new restriction on the leaders' agenda.

The EPG also discussed the likelihood of making it mandatory for everyone to wear masks or face coverings when leaving their home for essential services. A vote on that will happen on Thursday, and if the measure passes, it will take effect immediately.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently began recommending that people wear masks in public places while still urging everyone to stay at home as much as possible. 

RELATED: Manatee County leaders vote to put curfew in place during COVID-19 outbreak

RELATED: Pinellas County to consider reopening parts of beaches for exercise during pandemic

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