Gov. Jay Inslee joined the chorus around the country of lifting mask requirements. Masks will still be required in some places. Many are glad the indoor mask mandate is over. The mandate includes schools, bars, restaurants, markets, stores, gyms, and other indoor spaces.
There are still a number of areas where masks are still required. March 12th was the magic day that both Washington and Oregon lifted the mask mandate. It was originally dated for the last day of March but was moved up due to information sent around the country from the CDC. Places where masks are still required is as follows:
-Public transit, taxis, and rideshare vehicles (federal requirement)
-Correctional facilities
-Private businesses can still require masks if they choose, people will also still have the option to wear masks at work or businesses.
-Healthcare and medical facilities, including hospitals, outpatient, dental facilities and pharmacies
-Long-term care settings
-Private businesses and local governments that want to require masks for their employees, customers, or residents.
-Schools, childcare facilities, and libraries
Restaurants and bars
-Gyms, recreation centers, and indoor athletic facilities
-Masks are not required to be worn in the following:
-Houses of worship
-Grocery stores, businesses, and retail establishments
The mask mandate took effect on August 23, 2021. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention made it clear nationwide that easing mask requirements was the best choice as COVID cases declined. As reported last week in the Seattle Medium newspaper, the CDC eased the mask guidelines for more than 70% of Americans. Gov. Jay Inslee announced the end to the mask mandate last month, as part of an agreed-upon date between the health leaders of Washington, California, and Oregon.
Additionally, the Transportation Security Administration announced Thursday that it will extend its masking requirement through April 18. The federal rule means masks will be required through at least mid-April on planes, buses, trains, and at transit hubs.
People are being asked to respect those who would choose to keep wearing a mask after the end of the mask mandate. The CDC issued an Order on January 29, 2021 requiring the wearing of masks by people on public transportation conveyances or on the premises of transportation hubs to prevent spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.
