The mask mandate in Schuylkill County for those fully vaccinated will be lifted 8 a.m. Monday for those visiting the courthouse, magisterial district courts and other county facilities.

The order cites the increasing number of county residents vaccinated against COVID-19 and the decreasing number of new virus cases.

President Judge William E. Baldwin issued the order Thursday for the public, county and judicial employees. He made the decision in consultation with the county commissioners. Those who are not fully vaccinated are required to wear masks. Temperature screenings will still be done. Sheriff Joseph Groody and his deputies are permitted to deny entry to those who have an elevated temperature and are visibly ill.

Baldwin said he is trusting people to do the right thing and wear a mask if not fully vaccinated.

“It’s on the honor system,” he said.

Starting 8:30 a.m. June 14, the public no longer will have to make appointments to visit the courthouse, magisterial district courts or other county offices. Also, the chairs and tables can be used for those going to the Canteen in the courthouse for meals and snacks.

Precautions in place for jury trials are still in effect except that fully vaccinated jurors need not wear a mask, Baldwin said. Social distancing and cleaning of courtrooms will still occur, Baldwin said. Courtroom number one and seven will continue to be used for jury trials.

“If the numbers were to spike again, we would have to examine the situation,” Baldwin said.

John Matz, Schuylkill County Emergency Management Coordinator, said state Department of Health data as of May 28, the most recent data available, shows 42.5% of eligible county residents are fully vaccinated while 54.8% have received at least one shot.

“I urge everyone to consider getting vaccinated and continue to practice some caution as they get out in their summertime activities,” Matz said.

“I hope that the citizens of Schuylkill County will continue to get vaccinated,” Baldwin said.