Rhode Island's Mask Mandate Ends: What To Know

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island took a huge step forward in the coronavirus pandemic Tuesday, ending the mask-wearing requirement for those who are fully vaccinated.

The changed policy was announced Friday, aligning with updated guidance from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"I am proud that we have made enough progress vaccinating Rhode Islanders that we can safely move forward with aligning with CDC mask wearing and social distancing updates," Gov. Dan McKee said. "More than anything, I see this shift as a strong call to get vaccinated. It is only safe to unmask if you are fully vaccinated. We’ve made vaccinations available across the state. If you haven’t gotten yours yet, sign up today at vaccinateri.org."

Under the new guidance, anyone who is fully vaccinated — meaning they received their second Pfizer of Moderna shot or only Johnson & Johnson shot at least two weeks prior — no longer need to wear a mask indoors or outdoors, or practice social distancing.

People who are fully vaccinated can still choose to wear a mask when around other people if they wish to. The Rhode Island Department of Health encouraged anyone with a weakened immune system to discuss whether to keep wearing a mask with their health care provider.

Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, the director of the department, echoed the governor's call to unvaccinated Rhode Islanders.

"For anyone who is eligible but has not been vaccinated yet, this is one more reason to get your shot," Alexander-Scott said. "People who are not vaccinated are more vulnerable than ever to COVID-19. Protect yourself and the people around you by getting vaccinated. Now is the time."

Exceptions to the new policy

Rhode Islanders will still be required to wear a mask under certain circumstances, especially those who have not yet gotten their vaccine, or have not reached the two-week mark past their final vaccine dose.

Here's a look at who still have to wear a mask, and when.

• Anyone who is not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• Children under the age of 12, who are not yet eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Children under the age of 2 are still exempt from mask-wearing requirements.
• Anyone traveling on public transportation.
• Anyone in a health care setting, including hospitals, doctor's offices and nursing homes.
• Anyone in a facility serving people experiencing homelessness, including residents and staff.
• Teachers, students and school staff must continue to wear masks in school settings.
• Businesses can still require patrons to wear a mask while inside, regardless of vaccination status.

New rules Start May 21

Rhode Island was set to raise capacity limits in restaurants and enact other reopening measures May 28, ahead of Memorial Day weekend. As part of the new reopening schedule, the new guidance will go into effect a week early on Friday. Here's what to expect.

• Indoor dining: 100 percent capacity, no restrictions on table size.
• Bar areas: Indoor standing service allowed, no plexiglass barriers needed.
• Catered events: 100 percent capacity with no attendee limits, and indoor standing bar service, cocktail hours and open dance floors. Testing not required.
• Houses of worship: 100 percent capacity, 3-foot spacing required indoors.
• Gyms: 100 percent capacity, 3-foot spacing required indoors.
• Personal services (salons, barbershops, etc.): 100 percent capacity, 3-foot spacing required indoors.
• Venues of assembly: 100 percent capacity, with no limit on attendees and 3-foot spacing indoors. Dept. of Business Regulation approval is required for events with 2,500 people or more.
• Funeral homes: 100 percent capacity, 3-foot spacing required indoors.
• Offices: 100 percent capacity, 3-foot spacing required indoors.
• Social gatherings: No limit.
• Sports: Out-of-state teams can attend in-state tournaments.