NY state announces major loosening of mask mandates in schools, summer camps
New York state is announcing major changes to its mask mandates in schools and summer camps.
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Starting Monday, June 7, indoor mask use will be "strongly encouraged," but not required for students, campers, and staff who are not fully vaccinated.
Non-vaccinated people are encouraged to wear masks outdoors in high-risk situations.
Fully-vaccinated people don’t need masks at all indoors or outdoors.
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Schools and camps can implement their own stricter standards.
MORE INFORMATION: Letter on school, camp mask mandates to CDC Director Walensky from NY State Health Commissioner Zucker
New York State United Teachers President Andy Pallotta issued the following statement:
"Announcing on a Friday afternoon that masks will now be optional for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people in schools starting Monday — with only three weeks remaining in the school year — is whiplash-inducing news. Short of any additional guidance from the state or the CDC before Monday, we implore school districts to closely evaluate local conditions and connect with their educators and parents to decide the best course of action for protecting their school community."