Overview

The Face Coverings (Regulation) Bill aims to regulate the wearing of face coverings in public places in England and Wales. It makes wearing garments designed to obscure the face an offence, with exceptions for specific circumstances, and allows private businesses to request the removal of face coverings.

Description

This bill outlines the following key points:

• Regulation in Public Places: It's an offence to wear a garment primarily intended to obscure your face in a public place (as defined by the Public Order Act 1936), subject to exceptions.
• Exceptions: Exceptions include wearing a face covering due to a legal requirement, work-related needs, health/safety reasons, sporting activities, artistic/leisure pursuits, or in a place of worship.
• Penalty: The penalty for a violation is a fine (Level 1 on the Standard Scale).
• Private Premises: Owners or agents of private premises where goods or services are provided can request the removal of face coverings, and request the removal of individuals who refuse.
• Public Services: Individuals receiving or providing public services must remove face coverings unless required for health and safety reasons.
• Public Service Definition: "Public service" includes services provided by public agencies or enterprises related to legislation, administration, judiciary, public order, or national security. "Public official" is defined as someone providing a public service.
• Geographic Scope: The bill applies to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The primary cost would likely be associated with enforcement and potential legal challenges. No figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• The Public: Individuals wearing face coverings in public places, potentially subject to fines if the exceptions don't apply.
• Businesses: Private businesses may be impacted by managing requests for face covering removal and potential customer conflicts.
• Public Servants: Public officials and those receiving public services will be affected by the requirements for removing face coverings.
• Religious Groups: Those whose religious practices involve face coverings may need to consider the bill's implications.

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