SEPTA says masks will not be required in vehicles, stations and concourses
The announcement came after a federal judge struck down the mask mandate covering airlines and other public transportation.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Masks aboard SEPTA vehicles and inside stations and concourses will no longer be required but recommended, the transit agency announced Monday night.
SEPTA released the following statement on its new policy:
"Effective immediately, masks are not required on SEPTA vehicles and in stations and concourses. This applies to both customers and employees in these spaces. Per CDC and TSA guidance, SEPTA continues to recommend masking on the system.
Additionally, please note: In accordance with the City of Philadelphia's mask mandate that went into effect today, all SEPTA employees working inside SEPTA offices, districts and shops within Philadelphia must continue to wear masks until further notice."
SEE ALSO: How Philadelphia-area mass transit, airlines are responding to latest mask ruling
The announcement came hours after a federal judge in Florida struck down the national mask mandate covering airlines and other public transportation. The Biden administration said the rule would not be enforced while federal agencies decide how to respond to the judge's order.
The Justice Department declined to comment when asked if it would seek an emergency stay to block the judge's order. The CDC also declined to comment.
On Monday, Philadelphia became the first major US city to reinstate an indoor mask mandate.
The indoor mask mandate applies to indoor spaces such as restaurants, museums, businesses, offices, government buildings and arenas.
The City of Philadelphia released this statement on SEPTA's mask policy:
"We are evaluating the implications of this latest ruling and will provide further clarity around masking on transit in Philadelphia when available. This ruling does not impact the City's mask mandate for certain indoor places."
