DES MOINES, Iowa - A religious group is asking Governor Kim Reynolds to issue a face mask order.
The Interfaith Alliance of Iowa held a press conference at the state capitol Monday, and then delivered a statement signed by more than 800 members to the governor's office stating its request.
The group wants Reynolds to issue a statewide order to wear masks inside in public places, and outside when social distancing of at least six feet is not possible.
The Interfaith Alliance action comes after a group of doctors asked Reynolds to issue a mask order Saturday, and medical groups fronted by the Iowa Medical Society wrote a letter last week asking for a mask order.
At least 33 states have some type of statewide mask order.
Interfaith Alliance says its "Call to Action" statement is meant to protect the health and safety of Iowans, based on the moral value to “love your neighbor” found across most traditions and beliefs.
“Governor, we know that you trust Iowans, That is admirable. But, with the continued spread of the virus, trust is not keeping Iowans safe. It is time to take action,” said Interfaith Alliance Executive Director Connie Ryan in the statement. “The only responsible thing to do as a state – the only moral thing to do --- is to add a statewide mandate requiring everyone to wear a mask when they are inside any type of public building or accommodation and when they are outside and cannot social distance.”