States Rescinding Mask Mandates
by David Klemt
In welcome news, it seems that this is the week that mask mandates in several states throughout America are falling, with a few caveats.
The governors of several states are announcing they’re rescinding the mandates. However, masks must still be worn in some locations.
In some cases, these mandates will expire next week or later. But in others, Nevada, for example, the governor’s announcement was effective immediately.
Regardless, below you’ll find the states that are doing away with mask mandates.
One important note, schools and care facilities tend to be governed by separate indoor mask mandates than private businesses, cultural centers, and other venues.
California
The Golden State is ending the indoor mask requirement for the vaccinated, effective Tuesday, February 15. Also, unvaccinated people will be required to wear masks indoors in public areas.
However, it’s rumored that Los Angeles and other counties may choose to keep current mandates in place past next week.
Connecticut
“I think now we’re at a different place, I think the numbers say we’re at a different place, and I think the people of Connecticut have earned it,” said Governor Ned Lamont yesterday.
Of particular note, the Constitution State’s mask mandate is set to expire on February 28.
Delaware
On Monday, Governor John Carney signed an order that lifts Delaware’s “universal indoor mask mandate” today. Masks are no longer required in restaurants, bars, and other public spaces.
Illinois
Should Governor JB Pritzker’s plan move ahead smoothly, the Prairie State’s indoor mask mandate will be lifted at the end of this month. However, businesses and local authorities can still require masks indoors.
Schools in Illinois, as they are in other states, fall under a separate indoor mask mandate. Therefore, until otherwise addressed, masks will still be required to be worn inside schools.
Nevada
Regardless of vaccination status, the Silver State’s indoor mask mandate is lifted. Governor Steve Sisolak made the announcement yesterday, effective immediately.
As with other states, businesses may still ask patrons to wear masks when indoors in their venues.
New York
In New York City, restaurant operators must still ask for proof of vaccination. However, if a hotel property allows masks to come off in lobbies, that is permitted. Unvaccinated people can follow the same mask guidance as vaccinated people—if a business allows it.
Now, in New York State, masks are no longer required to dine indoors unless the business or local authorities say otherwise.
New Jersey
To be clear, the Garden State’s mask news pertains mostly to schools. This is because New Jersey didn’t impose mask requirements for restaurants and other indoor venues during the outbreak of Omicron.
Oregon
Now, when it comes to the Beaver State, things are moving a bit more slowly regarding indoor mask mandates. As it stands now, Oregon’s indoor mask mandate will expire “by March 31.” When the mandate is lifted, businesses will be free to set their own mask policies.
However, the mandate may be rescinded earlier than March 31 if Covid-19 hospitalizations drop to 400 or less occupied beds.
Rhode Island
Like Delaware, Rhode Island’s indoor mask mandate ends today. Until today, the Ocean State had a requirement to either show proof of vaccination or wear a mask when indoors.
Image: Jeremy Bezanger on Unsplash