Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein’s response was unequivocal

Is it permitted to tell someone about the policeman at the corner? That was the halachic sh’eilah posed to Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein at a recent public question-and-answer session. The questioner explained himself: If someone is not wearing a mask in public, he or she is liable to receive a severe fine. By telling the person that a policeman is in the neighborhood, one might save the fellow some money — but at the same time, gedolei Yisroel have urged the wearing of masks and therefore, the penalty is justified.

The Rav’s response, however, was unequivocal: It’s a mitzvah to tell him about the police, said the Rav, even though he’s doing wrong by not wearing a mask. The reason, Rav Zilberstein explained, is because while it’s in place to remind non-mask wearers of their obligation and to deny them entrance to stores, shuls and offices, the penalties and fines aren’t generally given in non-religious neighborhoods. Thus, they clearly aren’t viewed as law, but a deterrent, targeting one demographic above another.

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 822)