Maryland's Statewide Mask Mandate To Remain In Effect As COVID-19 Restrictions Loosen, Gov. Larry Hogan Says
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Gov. Larry Hogan announced on Monday he was loosening a number of COVID-19 restrictions in the state as metrics continue to improve, but one rule that isn't changing is the state's mask mandate.
Hogan said the statewide mask mandate "remains in full force and effect." Under the mandate, masks are required at public indoor facilities and outdoors when social distancing isn't possible, including grocery stores, fitness centers and public areas of all businesses. Masks are also required on public transportation.
UPDATES FROM GOV. HOGAN'S NEWS CONFERENCE:
- Maryland Lifts COVID Capacity Limits On Restaurant Dining, Retail And Other Businesses, Masks Still Required
- COVID Latest: Maryland Lifts Quarantine Restrictions On Out-Of-State Travel, Testing Strongly Encouraged
- Graduations, Proms Should Be Allowed 'As Long As We Follow All Health Advice,' Gov. Hogan Says
- Mass COVID-19 Vaccination Site In Hagerstown To Open March 25, One Week Ahead Of Schedule
- COVID-19 Latest: Oriole Park Can Host Fans At 50% Capacity, Gov. Hogan Announces
- COVID-19 Latest: Adult Day Care Centers To Reopen With Safety Measures In Place, Gov. Hogan Says
Outdoor activity is still safer than indoor activity, Hogan stressed.
Other states have begun to move toward eliminating mask mandates. Texas' mask mandate is set to end on Wednesday.
WATCH: Gov. Hogan's Full News Conference:
For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.