Masks no longer required on Boise-area buses, agency says. But they’re still recommended
Travelers on public Treasure Valley buses will no longer be required to wear masks, according to a Tuesday news release.
In an announcement, Valley Regional Transit, which has bus routes throughout Ada County and in Canyon County, said masks are now recommended instead of mandated.
The changes come after a federal judge in Florida struck down a requirement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that masks be worn on public transportation in the U.S.
The judge, who was appointed to the federal court by former President Donald Trump late in 2020, said the CDC order exceeded the agency’s authority, and federal officials have since said the order is no longer in effect.
“This means that transit agencies and airports can now make their own decisions about mask requirements,” the release from Valley Regional Transit said.
“While masks are no longer required, Valley Regional Transit recommends wearing face masks on buses and within its facilities,” the release added. “Face masks are also available upon request on buses and at VRT transit facilities.”
The Boise Airport also announced on Tuesday that masks are now optional for travelers in the terminal. Individual airlines may have different rules.
On April 13, before Monday’s court decision, President Joe Biden extended the mask mandate for planes and other transit until May 3.
It is unclear whether the Biden’s administration will appeal the judge’s decision.
On Monday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the Department of Homeland Security was reviewing the judge’s ruling, and that the Justice Department will make any decisions about further litigation, according to The Washington Post.
