"Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety."
I know, I know. We've probably all seen or heard that quote a lot since the mandates and lockdowns took off. I will say that governments do indeed have a duty to protect their people. However, I also believe the mask mandates as well as lockdowns are just the tip of the iceberg as far as regulations and eventual laws are concerned.
I'm no fortune teller, but I expect the mask mandate to lead to vaccination mandates. Obviously for healthcare workers first, as they are already vaccinated for common diseases.
Government may provide incentive for getting vaccinated, such as access to stimulus packages. On the other hand, they may also discontinue government assistance for those who refuse vaccine. They may not force you, at first, but they can financially cripple or bribe you.
As far as I'm aware, police are not arresting people for disobeying the mask mandate. Rather, the duty of enforcement is pushed onto businesses. Make customers wear masks or be fined/shut down.
I expect employers to be the enforcers of vaccines eventually.
In short, I recognize the potential protection masks may offer, but at the same time, mandating them is a slippery slope that I hope does not lead to further overreach.
Personally, I do not wear a mask. I have not worn one since the start. I have known several people with the virus, all of whom have described it as the most mild cold they've ever had. Unfortunately, there are those who suffer from other conditions, which, when combined with C19, pose a greater health risk than C19 alone (obviously). These are typically the same people who would otherwise perish from complications due to regular influenza or the common cold every year.
I say we protect the fragile and elderly, and let the rest of us take responsibility for ourselves and our families. The virus may be highly contagious, but simply being infected with it does not equate to a death sentence.