AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Following Monday's federal court ruling that struck down a federal mask mandate in the nation's airports and for passengers using public transportation, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and CapMetro both said Monday night that masks were no longer required.
"Following today’s federal court ruling & the decision by TSA to rescind the mask Security Directives, masks are no longer mandatory at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport," read a Tweet posted by AUS officials just after 8:15 p.m. Monday night.
A statement from the Transportation Security Administration also acknowledged the court's ruling. "TSA will no longer enforce its Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs," the statement reads. "TSA will also rescind the new Security Directives that were scheduled to take effect tomorrow. CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time."
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CapMetro officials also confirmed that passengers will no longer be required to wear masks while using its services, effective immediately. Despite the mandate being lifted, passengers are still encouraged to wear masks if they wish. "The CDC is still encouraging customers to mask up to protect themselves while using public transportation," the agency said in a statement.
Last week, the CDC opted to extend the mask mandate for public transportation and the nation's airports until May 3. Monday's ruling sets that extension aside, lifting the mandate across the country.
The Justice Department has not indicated if it will seek to appeal the ruling.