New York's subway now has a 'you do you' mask policy. It's getting a Bronx cheer

Critics say the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's signs explaining New York's new mask-optional policy for transit riders undermines earlier messages and puts people at risk. (Metropolitan Transportation Authority)

"Beginning today, masks are encouraged but optional" on subways, buses and regional trains, New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced on Wednesday. Officials said the change reflects the latest health data.

Simple, right? After all, the MTA won praise during the pandemic for using clear, positive language to educate transit riders about staying safe. But that changed in a quintessential New York City minute when people saw the signs MTA used to explain the new policy.