Aside from the obvious constitutional problems with such a measure, a mandatory mask requirement presents numerous problems.  Eight millions of Virginians would need to be monitored for compliance.  Who would do this?  Does the Commonwealth have the manpower to carry out the observation of so many?  Are the courts ready?  Many Virginians oppose the masks and would become criminals for not wearing them. 

Would not a better approach for a free people be a strong recommendation that Virginians wear masks, accompanied by an honest educational effort aimed at explaining the benefits of masks, the proper wearing of masks, and the most beneficial type of mask?