Virginians are going to be seeing more faces.
Governor Ralph Northam has lifted the mask mandate, according to a release from the Office of the Governor.
The change will take effect at midnight tonight.
This decision aligns with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, which say that those who are fully vaccinated aren’t required to wear masks in most indoor areas. Masks must be worn on public transportation, at healthcare facilities, and in congregations.
Businesses may require masks. Those who are working in various industries, such as restaurants, fitness, personal care, retail and entertainment, and aren’t fully vaccinated should wear a mask.
Masks are encouraged in all settings for individuals who haven’t received the vaccine or aren’t fully vaccinated.
Due to the low number of children who have received the vaccine, masks are still required in public schools.
Northam also announced that the social distancing and capacity limits will be removed on May 28. Officials were originally planning to lift them on June 15.
“Virginians have been working hard, and we are seeing the results in our strong vaccine numbers and dramatically lowered case counts,” Northam said. “That’s why we can safely move up the timeline for lifting mitigation measures in Virginia. I strongly urge any Virginian who is not yet vaccinated to do so—the vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your community from COVID-19. The message is clear: vaccinations are how we put this pandemic in the rearview mirror and get back to being with the people we love and doing the things we have missed.”
You can view the full announcement on the Governor Ralph Northam YouTube channel.
