News

Masking requirement is lifted for Maine lawmakers

Masking requirement is lifted for Maine lawmakers

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine lawmakers will no longer be required to wear masks in the State House effective on Monday.

Legislative leaders voted unanimously Thursday to lift the mask requirement with an agreement that it could be reinstituted if COVID-19 infections and hospitalization rates rise in the future.

The council said its future decisions will be linked COVID-19 rates in Kennebec County, home to the state capital city.

The decision came a day after the administration of Democratic Gov. Janet Mills lifted a recommendation for universal masking at Maine schools. The administration already lifted the mask requirement for other indoor spaces last May.

At the height of the pandemic, lawmakers and state workers were required to wear masks, committee meetings were virtual and the Legislature met at the Augusta Civic Center.

But those restrictions have been gradually loosening.

The Legislature has returned this year to the State House, and committee meetings are now a hybrid model with some people meeting in person and others appearing virtually.

Latest Headlines

7 hours ago in Local

Man Dies in Down East Maine Crash

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

8 hours ago in Local

Maine State Worker Resigns After Charges for Comfort Dog’s Death

Brodie Hinckley was placed on administrative leave last month

9 hours ago in Local

Former Gov. LePage joins Republicans calling for investigation into funds raised for Lewiston shooting survivors

A group of Maine Republicans including former Governor Paul LePage are calling for an investigation into the use of funds raised for survivors of the Lewiston mass shooting.

9 hours ago in Local

Traffic stops lead to drug arrest in Portland

Police seized a rifle along with meth and crack cocaine during a traffic stop in Portland.

19 hours ago in Local

Right Whale, Found Off Maine Coast, Growing in Population

The whales have shown a trend of slow population growth over the past four years.