California Health and Human Services is confirming the state will align with CDC guidance and lift the state's mask mandate on June 15th. This means vaccinated residents are allowed to mask-less in most settings. The department's Dr. Mark Ghaly clarifies that businesses can choose if they want to require masks in their establishment or not, while no enforcement for those unvaccinated will be implemented for public settings. The state is recommending an "honor system" program to help enforce that those who are unmasked are vaccinated. If you are not vaccinated, it is suggested you still wear a mask to slow the spread and protect yourself some possibly contracting Covid-19.
Here is a list of exceptions to the lifted mask mandate:
- Public transportation and hubs
- K-12 school institutions (indoor only)
- Health care settings
- Homeless shelters and emergency shelters
- Large indoor or outdoor gatherings
- Correctional facilities
Dr. Ghaly also says that CalOSHA is reconsidering mask guidance after last week's confusing updates. These new guidelines go into effect at 12:01 AM on June 15th.