Ohio is removing a mask requirement immediately for people who are fully vaccinated, in keeping with new guidance from the federal government.
Republican Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement Friday that unvaccinated people should continue to wear masks and socially distance, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends.
"Ohio will be amending our remaining health orders tt comply with the new CDC guidance, which says that those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks, while those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance," DeWine said in a statement.
The governor said existing health orders still won't be fully lifted until June 2, as he had announced Wednesday, but their wording will be updated to match CDC guidelines. The June 2 date was chosen to give those who need to ample time to get vaccinated.
On Wednesday, DeWine said the key to lifting the health restrictions is the vaccine along with individuals and companies making their own responsible decisions when it comes to preventing the spread of the virus.
.@GovMikeDeWine modifies statewide mask mandate following new CDC guidance: “those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks, while those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance” pic.twitter.com/vnUFLomDQs
— Karen Kasler (@karenkasler) May 14, 2021