Masks are no longer required on public transportation in Illinois.
A federal judge on Monday ruled the federal requirement that people wear masks when using public transportation was unenforceable, and on Tuesday the state updated its guidelines to align with the ruling.
Executive Order 2022-06 will be amended to reflect the change. Municipalities retain the right to establish their own mitigations, including masking requirements on public transportation.
“I’m proud of the work our state has done to fight COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable,” Gov. JB Pritzker said. “I continue to urge Illinoisans to follow CDC guidelines and, most importantly, get vaccinated to protect yourself and others.”
Following Pritzker’s statement, Metra announced that it would follow the state’s lead.
“Given Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s announcement, starting immediately, masks will be welcome but not required while traveling on Metra.”
Nearly 73% of eligible Illinoisans are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and over 81% have had at least one dose of the vaccine.
Vaccines are available regardless of immigration status or background, and vaccination locations can be found at vaccines.gov.
The CDC continues to recommend that the immunocompromised, those who cannot be vaccinated and those in congregate facilities wear masks to protect the vulnerable. The CDC also recommends masks are worn in areas of high transmission.