TSA Can Now Enforce Mask Mandate at Screening Checkpoints
It seems like vaccines are rolling out and things seem to be moving in the right direction as we all try to get out of this pandemic. Although some rules and guidelines are still in place and if you're going to be traveling anytime soon you better plan on having a face mask with you.
According to KRDO, the Department of Homeland Security has now given authority to TSA workers to enforce President Joe Biden's new transportation mask mandate. This means a mask is required at all TSA screening checkpoints and throughout the commercial and public transportation system.
There was a Determination of National Emergency that was signed on Sunday making it so TSA employees can now take the same actions as authorities of its federal jurisdiction so it can enforce the mask mandate order initially created by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
The new order in regards to public transportation will include the following areas:
- Airplanes
- Trains
- Buses
- Boats
- Subways
- Taxis
- and Rideshares (such as Uber or Lyft)
The details regarding masks have been more specific as of late saying that masks need to have at least two or more layers of breathable fabric and need to be secured to the head with ties, ear loops, or elastic bands. Basically, this means those neck gaiters will not be enough to board an airplane or any other type of mass transportation at this time.
After Biden took office he did challenge all Americans to wear a facemask for 100 days in order to reduce the spread of the virus.