Push for mandatory masks continues to grow

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Alberta’s premier has rejected the idea, but calls are growing across Canada to make masks mandatory.

Now, some retailers are urging the province to make the move.

Last month, the group Masks 4 Canada launched an online petition urging governments to make mask-wearing in public spaces mandatory.

So far, the petition has received nearly 50,000 signatures.

WATCH: Federal health officials asks Canadians to wear masks

As of Thursday, Toronto transit riders are required to wear a mask or face covering and city council recently voted to expand that rule to the entire city.

While the practice isn’t mandatory for Calgary Transit riders, Mayor Naheed Nenshi said he is strongly encouraged by the number of people wearing masks.

However, he warned city council could rethink its decision if that changes.

“If we don’t see compliance in the 60, 70 per cent range, then we are going to have a very serious discussion about mandating it,” said Nenshi during a press conference Tuesday.

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All passengers flying into and out of Canadian airports are also required to wear masks.

A recent poll from Leger shows over 50 per cent of those surveyed agree with making mask-wearing mandatory, with the majority of support coming from Ontario and Quebec.