The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has made it mandatory for people to wear face masks on planes and all forms of public transportation.
The order also makes mask-wearing mandatory at all transportation hubs.
That includes bus and ferry terminals, train and subway stations, airports and seaports.
The order went into effect at the beginning of February 2021.
"People must wear masks that completely cover both the mouth and nose while awaiting, boarding, disembarking, or traveling on airplanes, ships, ferries, trains, subways, buses, taxis, and ride-shares as they are traveling into, within, or out of the United States and U.S. territories." CDC, via statement
Children under age 2 are an exception to the rule, as well as people who cannot safely wear masks due to a disability.
Face masks can be temporarily removed to eat, drink, take medication or communicate with someone who is hearing impaired.
The CDC anticipates “widespread voluntary compliance” and “support” from federal agencies.
However, the CDC can enforce the order through criminal penalties if necessary.
