New enforcements are now underway in Rockland County when it comes to children and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rockland's health commissioner says they are seeing many cases of COVID-19 linked to schools, childcare programs and on school buses.

Schools, child care programs and school transportation companies can be fined thousands each day for not making sure children are wearing face coverings under their supervision.

"The primary focus of this is going to be on the bus transportation, which frankly we have gotten a lot of calls. I cannot begin to tell you how many people have called and shown and give us videos and pictures of children on buses without masks and that is a problem," says Rockland County Executive Ed Day.

Violators face a civil penalty of up to $2,000 per violation per day.

Day stressed that it is their responsibility to make sure every child over the age of 2 is wearing an appropriate face covering over their nose and mouth - excluding mask breaks when students are allowed to take them off a safe distance away from each other.

He says enforcing the use of masks on school buses is the biggest issue. He says his team has received a lot of videos and photos of children on buses without masks.

The Nyack schools superintendent said compliance in his schools has been high and their procedure won't need to change. He says his employees were trained on how to wear a mask and taught students as well.

The Rockland County health commissioner's order also states fines will be issued if faculty, staff or visitors are not wearing a face covering.

If people see violations, they are being told to call or email the complaint. Health inspectors will then go to the location of the reported violation to observe.

To report a violation, call the COVID-19 Hotline at 845-238-1956, or email covidcallcenter@co.rockland.ny.us.