Taking a look at the proposed penalties for violation of the mask mandate, versus penalties for other criminal misdemeanors
Governor Holcomb announced Wednesday that his mask mandate, which should take effect Monday, will carry the penalty for a Class B Misdemeanor.
According to IC 35-50-3-3 Sec. 3., “a person who commits a Class B misdemeanor shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of not more than one hundred eighty (180) days; in addition, he may be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).”
Thus, according to Gov. Holcomb, a person not wearing a mask where required should be as criminally liable as if that person had committed these other crimes: Possession of marijuana of less than 30 grams, Public Intoxication, Battery, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Recklessness, Hazing, Criminal Mischief, Harassment, and Voyeurism.
By way of comparison, less serious Class C Misdemeanors, which are only punishable by imprisonment for up to 60 days and fines of up to $500, include: Minor in possession of alcohol, Possession of paraphernalia, Operating While Intoxicated, Operating a Vehicle with a BAC of at least 0.08 but less than 0.15, Indecent Exposure, Public Nudity, Assault, Disorderly Conduct, and Loitering.