(WXYZ) — The Transportation Security Administration will be enforcing mask requirements for all individuals over the age of 2 in all U.S. airports and throughout the transportation network.
According to a press release from the TSA, the requirement begins on Feb. 2 and will be in place until May 11, 2021.
“TSA will fully comply with the President’s Executive Orders, CDC guidance and the DHS National Emergency determination to ensure healthy and secure travel across all transportation sectors. This will help prevent further spread of COVID-19 and encourage a unified government response,” said Darby LaJoye, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the TSA Administrator, in a press release. “As we continue to experience impacts from this pandemic, we are committed to this measure as the right thing to do for the TSA workforce, for our industry stakeholders and for passengers.”
Travelers may be asked to lower their mask briefly so officers can verify their identities at various points.
Masks. You know them. You (maybe) love them. Until further notice, masks are required in all airports across the United States. While wearing your mask through security, be prepared to adjust it so the TSA Officer can visually confirm your identity. https://t.co/1xXldTkF7r pic.twitter.com/O1qOR61rWx
— TSA (@TSA) February 1, 2021
The mask mandate is applied to airports, airplanes with inbound flights to U.S. ports of entry and surface transportation modes like bus systems.
The TSA said passengers who refuse to wear masks may be "denied entry, boarding, or continued transport."
BREAKING: Transportation mask mandate: Masks can be manufactured or homemade and should be a solid piece of material without slits, exhalation valves, or punctures. Face shields and/or goggles are not a substitute for a mask; but, may be used in addition to a mask, per @TSA.
— Lisa Farbstein, TSA Spokesperson (@TSA_Northeast) February 1, 2021
TSA Cares can provide assistance to passengers with disabilities or medical conditions. Passengers are asked to call the helpline 72 hours prior to traveling: 855-787-2227.
More information about the TSA face mask requirements can be found here.
Additional Coronavirus information and resources:
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