New bill to allow fines for individuals, companies not wearing face masks, banning large social events

The Georgian parliament has passed a bill with its third and final reading today which allows fining of individuals and companies for not wearing face masks in closed public areas, public transport and taxis, and for gatherings of more than 10 individuals for birthdays, weddings, funerals and other social events. 

• health official says virus not yet defeated

Individuals will be fined  by 20 GEL for not wearing face masks in closed public areas, in public transport and taxis. 

Both drivers and passengers will be fined.

For the violation legal entities will be fined 500 GEL. 

All individuals at a social event with more than 10 people will be fined 2,000 GEL and a legal entity will be fined 10,000 GEL. 

The measure is temporary and will be valid at least by July 15.

The author of the bill, ruling party MP Anri Okhanashvili said that the measure may be prolonged taking the epidemiological situation into account.