New Mexico Department of Health Secretary Kathyleen Kunkel has amended the state public health emergency order to clarify some of the steps businesses must take in order to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cloth face coverings for employees will be required beginning May 6 for all grocery and retail spaces greater than 50,000 square feet in size, and all restaurants currently operating curbside and delivery service.

All employees must wear their face coverings in the workplace at all times when in the presence of others.

This is part of the first phase of reopening the state, while continuing to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Starting on May 11, all essential businesses currently operating under the public health order must also comply with the face covering requirement, no matter the size of the business.

Employers are strongly encouraged to acquire face coverings for all employees over the next week, in preparation for a potential Phase One reopening in mid-May in order to be in compliance with state requirements.

Retailers will not be required to provide face coverings for customers, but are encouraged to post signs encouraging customers to wear their own masks. Retailers may also require customers to wear masks at their own discretion.

Other COVID-safe requirements and best practices specific to other industries are under development.

Last week the governor extended her stay-at-home order to May 15, with modifications, allowing for some limited, additional retail and recreational opportunities.

At this time, with 4,138 positive cases in New Mexico and 162 COVID-related deaths, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said further reopening will depend on businesses and individuals doing their part to keep neighbors safe.

“If New Mexicans don’t behave safely, we won’t be able to reopen more than we have. Every single one of us has to do their part,” she said.