In a press conference this afternoon, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings announced that he has signed an executive order to declare a local state of emergency as a result of concerns over an increase in COVID-19 cases.

Demings said that county residents have to act together to avoid a self-inflicted economic collapse. Orange County continues to record more than 1,000 new cases per day, according to the latest data. Just under 63% of eligible Orange County residents are fully vaccinated as of today. Ultimately, Demings and county officials have the goal of getting more residents vaccinated.

Demings pleaded with local businesses to require face masks indoors. Demings said that businesses need to implement stronger mask mandates to ensure that the theme parks and greater economy stay open.

Demings did not sign into effect any face mask requirements, only recommendations. In the executive order, Demings did say that further executive orders to protect the health, welfare, and safety of the people and property within Orange County.

When asked about why he didn’t make any mask wearing mandatory, Demings said that actions by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida legislator prevented it. Demings said that he expects Walt Disney World and other area theme parks will follow new CDC guidelines, requiring guests to wear masks indoors.

As of publish time, Walt Disney World has not announced any changes to their face mask policies, which are available to read below.

As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!