On Monday, the Biden Administration suspends its mask mandate for airports, planes, and other public transportation after a Federal Judge in Florida ruled against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
US District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle, an appointee of President Donald Trump, ruled that the CDC overstepped its authority. She also stated that the CDC failed to adequately explain its decision to impose the mandate and did not allow for public comment or follow proper rulemaking guidelines.
The Biden Administration announced that travelers can opt for no masks pending a review of the ruling.
According to CNBC, White House press secretary Jen Psaki, at a news conference Monday, said the administration is reviewing the court’s ruling and the Justice Department will determine whether it will appeal. The Justice Department declined to comment when asked by CNBC.
Almost Immediately, United Airlines Airlines announced that masks would no longer be required for domestic and select international flights.
“While this means that our employees are no longer required to wear a mask – and no longer have to enforce a mask requirement for most of the flying public – they will be able to wear masks if they choose to do so, as the CDC continues to strongly recommend wearing a mask on public transit,” United said.
Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Soutwest Airline also made similar announcements that masks would be optional for travelers, passengers, and employees alike.
Reports even show that some passengers who have boarded flights with mask mandate expectations, some passengers have begun taking them off mid-flight.
In a statement, Amtrak stated, “While Amtrak passengers and employees are no longer required to wear masks while on board trains or in stations, masks are welcome and remain an important preventive measure against COVID-19. Anyone needing or choosing to wear one is encouraged to do so. “
Despite the new ruling, The CDC still encourages wearing your mask.
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