A major rule still being enforced in the United States in response to the Covid pandemic is being lifted following a significant court decision.
Masks were set to be mandatory until May 3 on planes, trains, in taxis and in transport hubs following the extension of the regulation by health officials.
However, a court ruling in Florida has thrown that mandate into a state of flux after a judge decided that the law requiring masks on public transport was unlawful.
US District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle ruled on Monday that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had exceeded its authority with the mandate.
It means that the mask rule, introduced 14 months ago by the Biden administration, will no longer be enforced on public transport.
"Therefore, TSA will not enforce its Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," a US administration official told Reuters.
"CDC recommends that people continue to wear masks in indoor public transportation settings."
Following the decision, a number of US airlines changed their rules, with many now not requiring passengers to wear masks on domestic and some international flights.
These include American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines.
However, Irish holidaymakers travelling to the US in the coming days and weeks are advised to check with their airline what the mask-wearing rules are.
It should also be noted that some cities are still enforcing the rule despite Monday's court ruling.
New York City is a top destination for many tourists from Ireland, and the majority of transport providers are still asking passengers to don a face covering.
The MTA, which oversees the New York City subway and bus system, as well as Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road, has said that mask requirements will continue to be enforced.
"The mask requirement on public transit in NY remains in effect for now pursuant t a March 2, 2022 determination by the New York State Department of Health," MTA Communications Director Tim Minton told News 4 New York.
People travelling on Greyhound buses and NJ Transit services must also wear a mask.
In contrast, AMTRAK, which runs train services in the US, has lifted the mask rules.
"While Amtrak passengers and employee are not longer required to wear masks while on board trains or in stations, masks are welcome and remain an important preventative measure against Covid-19," the company said.
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