Mask Mandate

U.S. senators are working on a “minibus” appropriations package to fund the government. That package now includes an amendment prohibiting mask mandates on transit supported by Ohio's two senators.

Ohio University will once again require masks be worn in all indoor spaces on the Athens campus starting Monday, August 1.

The Justice Department argues that the order issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in early 2021 "falls easily within the CDC's statutory authority."

This decision to appeal comes just two days after U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle ruled against the federal mask mandate.

A trip to John Glenn International Airport found travelers who are both supportive of and against the changes.

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) will no longer require masks on any of its transit vehicles or facilities. The move announced on Tuesday morning takes effect immediately.

Delta, United, Southwest, American and Alaska Airlines and other say masks are now optional for travelers on their aircraft.

The mask-wearing requirement had been initially imposed in early 2021, shortly after President Biden took office.

The Biden administration will continue to require travelers to wear masks on planes and other forms of public transport,.

The CEOs argue that the increase in vaccinations and the lifting of restrictions in other countries should make the Biden administration reconsider the policy for travelers.