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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Boston commuters will no longer have to pack a mask when boarding a train or bus serviced in and around the City.
A spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, and the Massachusetts Port Authority announced on Tuesday that they are dropping mask mandates on public transportation.
Masks will still be required to to wear masks on the RIDE paratransit service and most Regional Transit Authorities still have a mask mandate, officials said.
MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak added, “Customers are no longer required to wear a mask on MBTA vehicles, or at stations or facilities if they choose not to; however, if people feel more comfortable wearing a facemask, then by all means continue to do so. The MBTA remains committed to safety and will continue adhering to all CDC and Massachusetts’ public health guidance. The T is continuing to clean vehicles and stations regularly and upgrade air filtration systems.”
WBZ's Brooke McCarthy hopped over to Wellington Station in Medford to ask the riders there what they think about the MBTA's prior preservation of the mask mandate.
"You know people are still using public transportation, and people are packed in like sardines still- I wouldn't want to exposed to that. I think masks should be worn on the trains, it's a safety hazard," said rider Ashley.
Rideshare applications like Uber and Lyft have effectively ended their mask requirements too, following a ruling from the United States Middle District Court of Florida.
Lyft said on their website that drivers will no longer be able to report or cancel rides for unmasked riders, and that they expect both riders and drivers not to get in the car if they're experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
Read More: Facemasks Out At Logan After Federal Judge Strikes Down Mask Mandate
Masks are also optional at Logan International Airport, and many airlines there have dropped their mandates, like JetBlue. The Transportation Security Administration also announced they will not be enforcing mask mandates either, following the ruling.
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