Galveston Co. to fine poll workers who turn away maskless voters

GALVESTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Galveston County is prepared to enforce a $1,000 fine against poll workers who turn away voters who don't have a mask on.

On Friday, County Judge Mark Henry signed an executive order aimed at "protecting the fundamental right of voting access in Galveston County."

According to Henry, he signed the order after several people arrived at polls only to be turned away because they weren't wearing a face covering.

Henry also revealed he was turned away for not wearing a mask and that he refused to wear one when asked.

"The right to vote is a fundamental right of every eligible voter and is essential to our democracy," the county stated. "Voter suppression and voter intimidation will not be condoned in Galveston County for any reason."

Henry's order came just days after he helped reopen bars in the county with a happy hour that he attended in San Leon.

The order is also a stark contrast to safety implements in Harris County intended to keep voters in the neighboring county safe from contracting the virus.

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