REBNY Statement on New CDC Guidance Regarding Mask-Wearing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today released new public health guidance stating that people fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no longer need to wear a face mask or maintain 6 feet of social distancing in most settings, regardless of whether they are indoors or outdoors. In response to the new CDC guidance, REBNY President James Whelan released the following statement:

“This excellent news represents a major step forward in America’s recovery from the pandemic and the ongoing effort to jumpstart our economy in New York and across the nation.

“Many companies have already begun advancing their return-to-office plans and the CDC’s new guidance will send a strong message to all businesses and their employees that a full return to the office and other indoor settings will be achieved safely and effectively. The new guidance also brings a powerful note of optimism to New York’s tourism industry and our cultural institutions as they welcome back visitors from across our City and across the world. To further expedite this path forward, it is more important than ever for all eligible individuals to become vaccinated, just as millions of Americans have already done following the diligent work of leaders across all levels of government. We also look forward to any updated guidance from New York State and City officials as they review their current regulations for vaccinated individuals in light of the CDC’s new guidance.

“REBNY and its members have always said that New York would come back from the pandemic even stronger. We can see that comeback on the horizon and we will continue working collaboratively with our partners in government and throughout the business community to make it happen.”

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