Sheriffs in nine Texas counties are refusing to enforce an executive order mandating that residents wear masks in public.
Fox News reported that the law enforcement officials in Denton, Houston, Montgomery, Gillespie, Upshur, Kerr, Gregg, Nacogdoches and Panola counties say they will not issue citations to those who do not comply with the order.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday had ordered that face coverings must be worn in public across most of the state.
Violators can be fined up to $250. There are exceptions for people who have a medical condition or disability, who are exercising outdoors, or who are participating in a religious service or voting.
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office said it would take "no action" against those not wearing masks.
"This order includes specific language prohibiting law enforcement from detaining, arresting or confining to jail as a means to enforce the order,” the office posted on Facebook. “This language strips law enforcement of the necessary tools to enforce compliance with the law.”
CBS News noted several counties echoed the sentiment, saying the order is unenforceable.
And Fox News said one official called the order “draconian.”
“While we in law enforcement are desperately trying to build trust w/our community and are spread incredibly thin with the huge rise in violent crime, we are now expected to enforce yet another draconian mask law,” Houston Police Officers' Union President Joe Gamaldi tweeted.