The Department of Justice (DOJ) warns of fraudulent cards or flyers being used to claim immunity from mask mandates.
The images on the cards have been circulated online, showing they have a seal from the Department of Justice and claim protection against mask mandates under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Citizens are reportedly using the cards to avoid wearing face masks where they are required.
The following image is a counterfeit # face mask flyer / card that has been circulating throughout the United States. @ADANational has issued a statement that these cards were not issued by @TheJusticeDept and have not been endorsed by the Department. Https://t.co/Qh7DI3WWCe pic.twitter.com/3OnsySrAOr
– STOPfakes.Gov (@STOPfakesGov) June 26, 2020
The department said it did not issue the cards or approve their use.
“Do not be fooled by the deception and misappropriation of the Justice Department eagle,” US Attorney Matthew GT Martin said in a statement. “These cards do not have the force of law. The ‘Freedom to Breathe Agency’ or ‘FTBA’ is not a government agency. ”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using facial covering in situations where social distancing is not possible, and several state and local governments have required its use in public spaces.
Earlier this year, some began protesting the patterns of social distancing, claiming that they invaded civil liberties.
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