As case rates and hospitalizations both nationally as well as internationally continue to decline, California, Oregon, and Washington have decided once again to move in unison to update their masking guidance. After 11:59pm on March 11th, California, Oregon, and Washington will be adopting new indoor mask policies and moving from mask requirements to mask recommendations in schools.
State policies do not change federal requirements, which still include masks on public transit.
“Two years ago today, we identified Oregon’s first case of COVID-19.” Oregon Governor Kate Brown released in a statement Monday. “As has been made clear time and again over the last two years, COVID-19 does not stop at state borders or county lines. On the West Coast, our communities and economies are linked. Together, as we continue to recover from the Omicron surge, we will build resiliency and prepare for the next variant and the next pandemic. As we learn to live with this virus, we must remain vigilant to protect each other and prevent disruption to our schools, businesses, and communities–with a focus on protecting our most vulnerable and the people and communities that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.”
In Oregon, the Oregon Health Authority rules requiring masks in indoor public places and schools will be lifted after 11:59pm on March 11th. Other state and federal requirements, such as those for health care settings, public transit, and other specialized settings, will remain in place for a period of time.
“California continues to adjust our policies based on the latest data and science, applying what we’ve learned over the past two years to guide our response to the pandemic.” California Governor Gavin Newsom said. “Masks are an effective tool to minimize spread of the virus and future variants, especially when transmission rates are high. We cannot predict the future of the virus, but we are better prepared for it and will continue to take measures rooted in science to keep California moving forward.”
In California starting March 1st, masks will no longer be required but will be strongly recommended for unvaccinated individuals in most indoor settings. After March 11th, in schools and child care facilities, masks will not be required but will be strongly recommended. Masks will still be required for everyone in high transmission settings like public transit, emergency shelters, healthcare settings, correctional facilities, homeless shelters and long-term care facilities. As always, local jurisdictions may have additional requirements beyond the state guidance.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee also joined Oregon and California Monday, as indoor mask requirements in Washington will be lifted as of 11:59pm on March 11th. This new date does not change any other aspect of the updated mask requirements Gov. Inslee announced last week. Masks will still be required in certain settings including health care, corrections facilities, and long-term care facilities. The Washington State Department of Health will be issuing new guidance for K-12 schools next week so schools can prepare to implement updated safety protocols.
