The list of places requiring the use of masks on the Central and South Coasts continues to grow.
The City of Santa Barbara will begin to require them in places like supermarkets, convenience stores, hardware stores, restaurants, and ride share vehicles beginning May 1st.
The Metropolitan Transit District will also require their use starting Friday.
However, some local health officials are questioning the effectiveness of the cloth masks. Ventura County Public Health Officer Dr. Robert Levin says the science doesn’t support a countywide order. He says there are other more effective steps, like plexiglass windows between cashiers and customers in stores.
Dr. Levin says he’s concerned that a blanket mask requirement for the public would cut into the still limited supply of N95 masks needed by medical personnel and first responders.