As the latest surge of the coronavirus recedes across the Washington region, officials are beginning to lift vaccination and mask mandates and relax other restrictions. However, there are still some areas — such as public transportation and schools — where restrictions remain in place.
Here’s what you need to know about the state of coronavirus restrictions across the region.
Where do I still need to wear a mask?
In the District: Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) let the city’s indoor mask mandate expire at the end of February. Beginning March 1, masks are no longer required in many indoor public spaces. However, the city is still urging people to wear masks indoors voluntarily. And masks continue to be required in some congregate settings, such as schools, public transit and emergency shelters. In addition, private businesses can still require masks to be worn by their patrons.
In Maryland: Masks are no longer be required to be worn inside state buildings in Maryland. There is no statewide masking order for indoor spaces in effect, although masks are still required in certain settings, such as public transit. The statewide school mask mandate has been lifted, and individual school systems can decide whether to require masks. Local jurisdictions may still impose a masking requirement. Montgomery County’s indoor mask requirement expired on Feb. 21. Prince George’s County’s mandate lifted Feb. 28, more than a week earlier than the planned date of March 9.
In Virginia: There is no statewide mask mandate in place. Some localities require masks to be worn inside local government buildings, including the city of Alexandria and the counties of Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun. Public schools must allow individual parents to opt their children out of wearing masks as of March 1. Private businesses can still require masks to be worn by their patrons.
More on schools, testing, masks at the Washington Post.
