The US mask mandate was sensationally overturned by a federal judge yesterday, voiding the latest US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention extension. The mandate was declared unlawful by US District Judge Kathryn Kimball Micelle on Monday, citing violations of administrative law and the CDC's statutory authority. As a result, the mask mandate is no longer in place, according to the White House.
Last year, the Idaho-based Health Freedom Defense Fund filed a lawsuit against the mask mandate, claiming it was unlawful and in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act (APA). The court's decision on Monday came in reaction to that case. After US President Joe Biden took office, the mask mandate went into force early last year. People aged two and above were compelled to wear a face mask at all times when utilising public transportation and related infrastructure across the country (such as airports). Despite some anticipation that the requirement would expire this week, the CDC extended it until May 3.
Airlines are already responding to the changes, according to recent aviation news. "Effective immediately, all Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air guests and employees have the option to wear while travelling in the United States and at work," according to an Alaska Airlines statement.
