Biden wants to enact a federal a mask mandate immediately after inauguration

Democratic nominee Joe Biden said that, on the first day of his administration, he will “follow the science” and sign a federal mask mandate. This is being touted as the first step in his 100-day plan to fight the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“I’m absolutely convinced that in 100 days, we can change the course of the disease and change life in America for the better,” said Biden on Tuesday, Dec. 8, as he began introducing several key health advisors who he plans to appoint for his administration.
“My first 100 days, I’m going to ask for a masking plan,” he added. “Everyone for the first 100 days of my administration to wear a mask.”
During his announcement, Biden said that his new mask plan is going to require the support of the American people. “We need your help,” he said. “Wear a mask for just 100 days.” (Related: Biden wants to enact a national mask mandate, but has no legal authority to enforce such an order.)
This is not the first time that Biden has floated the possibility of imposing a nationwide mask order on the American populace. He previously scaled back his plans after he found out that he may not have the authority to authorize such an order, since public health directives are the purview of state governments.
Biden has pledged to issue an order that will make wearing face masks mandatory in federal buildings and on transportation that crosses state lines, such as buses and airplanes.
After he does this, Biden said that he will be working with governors and mayors to get them to enact mask mandates in their states and cities. “We’re going to require masks wherever possible.”
