New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced in September that riders on public transit are no longer required to wear masks, bringing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in line with other transportation systems that relaxed their rules in April, after a federal judge in Florida overturned a nationwide mandate. Covid-19 infection rates in New York have been on a downward trend since July, after a sixth wave hit the city. During the public announcement, streamed live on the internet, Gov. Hochul urged New Yorkers to get a new booster shot for the Omicron variant and got one herself on camera. The Food and Drug Administration authorized the new shots in Aug.
After Ms. Hochul’s announcement, the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) also loosened mask rules in its licensed vehicles, including black cars, taxis, liveries and HVFHVs. A message to licensees said: “New York State has revised its mask mandate for public transit. As of September 7, 2022, masks are no longer required in TLC licensed vehicles for passengers and drivers. Health and safety remain a top priority for TLC, and masks are strongly recommended for all vehicle occupants.”
Source: The New York Times
