April 19, 2022 - TRA Newswire -

Following a Federal judge in Florida ending the Center for Disease Control's order mandating masks for travelers on planes, trains, buses and other forms of transportation, Texas transit agencies and Amtrak said it's OK to unmask if you want.

In an almost 60 page response, U.S. District Judge Kathryn Mizelle said the order exceeded the CDC's authority.

An Amtrak spokesperson said that wearing a mask is no longer required, although you may choose to wear one voluntarily.

Dallas Area Rapid Transit rescinded the mark rule but will still continue to have hand sanitizer available. Houston Metro also removed the mandatory mask order and said it would take up to two days to remove all signs from trains and buses. Austin's Cap Metro joined the crowd but said the CDC is still encouraging customers to mask up to protect themselves while using public transportation.

Trinity Metro and DCTA also put out notices that masks are no longer mandatory to ride their trains. DCTA said it will reopen its downtown Denton Transit Center. 

Major airlines and Texas airports also lifted the mask requirement and have made it an option for travelers. The TSA has indicated that it will not enforce a mask mandate. 

Photo credit: Trinity Metro