CDC Mask Guidance: Phoenix Drops Mask Mandate

PHOENIX, AZ — The Phoenix City Council unanimously voted Wednesday to end the city's mask requirement, in light of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's updated mask guidelines.

The CDC's announcement centered around the fact that most Americans don't need to wear masks, indoors and outdoors, if they're fully vaccinated and don't live or work in a correctional or detention facility, a homeless shelter, are traveling on a plane, or are around someone who has COVID-19, the center said.

The CDC's guidance says that people are still subject to any federal, local or tribal mask requirements, such as the one that cities like Phoenix had in place.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego commended the council for coming together to end the city's mandate in a statement, saying Wednesday's decision is a step toward normalcy for the area as a whole.

“From the very start of the COVID-19 crisis, the City of Phoenix has made its decisions based on data and science. We’ve worked closely with experts and followed the guidance of the CDC to ensure we are providing our residents with the very best information available. Our decision to require masks last summer made an enormous, quantifiable difference in reducing the number of cases of COVID-19 in our community.

Like just about everyone, I am also tired of wearing a mask! Yet, there is still wisdom in taking smart steps to protect yourself and the people you love. The CDC’s newest guidelines recommend that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask in some indoor situations, and can go without a mask outdoors. It is important to note that the mask requirement remains in place for air travel, and on city buses and light rail.

I am pleased the city council joined me in this unanimous decision.”