CATA No Longer Requiring Masks

Masks are no longer required on Centre Area Transportation Authority services and in its customer service center following federal court ruling on Monday.

“Effective immediately, masking while using CATA’s services and in its Customer Service Center is now optional,” according to a statement from CATA on Tuesday morning. “Riders wishing to continue wearing masks are encouraged to do so.”

A federal district judge in Florida on Monday struck down the Biden administration’s mandate for masks to be worn on public transportation, saying it was “unlawful” because the Centers for Disease Control exceeded its authority in imposing the requirement and it violated administrative law.

The Transportation Security Administration subsequently announced it would no longer enforce directives requiring mask use for public transportation and transportation hubs.

“CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time,” a TSA statement read.

Prior to the ruling, TSA had extended the transportation mask mandate through May 3.

Locally, most masking requirements have now been dropped entirely. Temporary mask ordinances in State College and Patton Township came to an end in early March and State College Area School District made face coverings optional later in the month. Penn State also eliminated most of its masking requirements.