IBL News | New York
New York State announced yesterday the end of its mask mandate for schools, signifying the virus’ retreat.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the decision after consulting with public health and education officials. “My friends, the day has come,” she said.
“We will lift the statewide requirement based on all the data,” Hochul said. “However, there are some counties that have a higher rate of transmission. We will allow them to determine what is best for their county.”
The measure, which comes after two years of struggle against the COVID-19, will be effective this Wednesday, March 2.
The state’s decision does not supersede individual districts and counties, which can still impose mask mandates and other more restrictive measures.
New York City will follow the state’s example. The city will lift its indoor mask mandate for public school students on Monday, March 7, if the five boroughs continue to see a low level of COVID-19 risk, according to Mayor Erick Adams.
“Our schools have been among the safest places for our children since the beginning of the pandemic, and we will continue to make the proper public health decisions to keep our kids safe, including making masks available for any child or school staff member who wishes to continue wearing them,” Adams said in a statement.
Schools became battlegrounds between teachers, parents, students, and politicians over appropriate measures against the virus.
