COLUMBUS – Officials at COTA and John Glenn Columbus International Airport announced changes to their facial covering policies Tuesday, hours after a federal judge’s ruling that ended the nation’s federal mask mandate on public transit.
The transit authority says it will no longer require masks on all buses or in COTA facilities, effective immediately, though cleaning and sanitization guidelines would still be followed, Jeff Pullin, public and media relations manager, said.
Given the sudden nature of this announcement, it will take time before all COTA employees receive this policy change. Customers might experience inconsistent enforcement during the next 24 hours as this announcement circulates, and we ask them to exhibit understanding and patience during this brief period. It will also take time to fully communicate to customers through social media, vehicle signage and onboard audio announcements, regarding the end of the mask requirement. – Central Ohio Transit Authority statement
Masks are also now optional in and on airport property for both passengers and employees, officials said.
Update: TSA will no longer enforce its Security Directives & Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs here in Columbus. This means masks are now optional in and on airport property for both passengers and employees.
— John Glenn Intl Airport (@columbusairport) April 19, 2022
The Justice Department says it will not appeal the ruling unless the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believes the requirement is still necessary.
A judge in Florida on Monday ended the sweeping mandate, which required face coverings on planes and trains and in transit hubs.
Justice Department spokesman Anthony Coley said Tuesday that officials believe the federal mask order was “a valid exercise of the authority Congress has given CDC to protect the public health.”
The CDC continues to assess public health conditions, and if the agency determines a mandate is necessary, the Justice Department will file an appeal.