COTA has lifted its mask mandate, effective immediately. The federal mask mandate had been set to expire on Monday, April 18 when the Biden administration extended it by 15 days to Tuesday, May 3. The extension was due to concerns the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had about the spread of the omicron variant, including the BA.2 subvariant.
Yesterday, Florida US District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle ruled against the decision by the CDC, stating that “the Mask Mandate exceeds the CDC’s statutory authority and violates the procedures required for agency rulemaking under the Administrative Procedure Act.” With that ruling, the Mask Mandate was declared unlawful and vacated.
A Biden administration official stated “the agencies are reviewing the decision and assessing potential next steps,” and they do recommend people continue to mask up in indoor public transit settings.
In COTA’s statement they acknowledge that masks are still recommended by the CDC, although they will no longer be required on COTA vehicles.
COTA has asked for patience from the community as they work to communicate the policy change to their drivers and update the language on vehicles.
“Given the sudden nature of this announcement, it will take time before all COTA employees receive this policy change. Customers might experience inconsistent enforcement during the next 24 hours as this announcement circulates, and we ask them to exhibit understanding and patience during this brief period. It will also take time to fully communicate to customers
through vehicle signage and onboard audio announcements, regarding the end of the mask requirement.”
The mask mandate has been in place since February 1, 2021.
COTA will continue to thoroughly clean and sanitize its vehicles and facilities.
For more information, visit COTA.com.