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Petition calls for Kings Island to cancel mask requirement when park reopens

Thousands of people have signed the petition.

MASON, Ohio — When Kings Island and Cedar Point open for the 2020 season next month, all park guests will be required to wear a mask. It’s a hotly debated topic that has now sparked a petition that calls for Kings Island to lift their mask rule.

“If you choose to wear a mask, great! But don’t force healthy individuals to do so!” the petition declares.

The petition, which was recently posted on Change.org, has more than 6,700 signatures as of 6:15 a.m. Tuesday.

“The heat and humidity alone will make this very difficult to do,” the petition continues. “Don’t force your children to do this! Stand up for our rights! Many people have paid for passes and now won’t get to use them!"

Although Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced that amusement parks could begin the reopening process on June 19, both Kings Island and Cedar Point are waiting a bit longer. Kings Island will get things started first with a reopening date set July 2. Cedar Point reopens one week later on July 9.

In addition to the mask requirement, both parks will have other safety precautions in place as they reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic, which include park capacity, temperature checks, social distancing protocols (including on rides) and increased cleaning.

(NOTE: Video at the top of this story features animated ride footage of Orion, the new roller coaster set to open at Kings Island this year).

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