As COVID-19 cases drop across the country, six major cities continue to require proof of COVID-19 vaccination to access many public venues.
Many cities relaxed their rules in recent weeks.
But people in Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco and Seattle are still required to show they are vaccinated before going out to some places, including restaurants and gyms.
Requirements in Seattle and Chicago are set to expire at the end of February, though businesses will still be able to implement their own proof-of-vaccination rules.
Chicago to Lift Mask and COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates on Feb. 28, but Masks Will Remain for Schools, Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Public Transit
Citing a “dramatic swing” in COVID-19 cases, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced on Tuesday (Feb. 22) the city would lift its indoor mask mandate and proof of vaccination mandate for businesses on February 28, the same day the statewide indoor mask mandate is set to expire.
Cook County officials later announced they also would end their own mask and COVID-19 vaccine mandates on February 28.
Starting Monday (Feb. 28), Chicago and suburban Cook County will no longer require people to wear masks in indoor public settings, or to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter gyms, restaurants, bars, or other businesses that serve food.
However, the reversal of the mask mandate will not apply in the Chicago Public Schools. Students, teachers, and staff are still required to wear masks indoors.
Additionally, masks will still be required on public transit, in all health care settings, in nursing homes, and other congregate settings—such as prisons and jails