Los Angeles County residents will no longer be required to wear masks at restaurants, bars, gyms, shops and other businesses starting Friday as community spread of the coronavirus continues to decline, the county’s top health official said.
Data published Thursday by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts California’s most populous county in the lowest level of virus transmission.
Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer said the milestone means she would issue a revised health order that aligns with new state guidelines unveiled Monday allowing vaccinated or unvaccinated people to choose to go without face coverings.
Business owners can choose to require masks for both customers and employees.
Mask Mandate Over in Vermont’s Largest City
Vermont’s largest city has ended its indoor mask mandate after a drop in COVID-19 cases.
The mandate expired on Thursday.
Last month, the Burlington City Council voted not to renew the masking order. Businesses may choose to keep masking guidance.
State officials announced Thursday that Vermont is lifting its indoor masking guidance, including for schools, as of Mar. 14.