Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin said today New York State should end the mask mandate for all residents, particularly children, as Gov. Hochul is slated to make an announcement regarding future state mask mandates today.
“New York State needs to unmask all residents, especially our children, as we see cases decline across the state,” said McLaughlin.
“It is particularly unfair to require masks for young children, including while attending school or socializing or visiting stores. Our kids are paying too heavy a price and I share the concern from so many parents about the negative effects of the forced masking will be lasting,” added McLaughlin.
Cases have been declining in Rensselaer County during 2022, and hospitalizations have also dropped since January 1. The state has also said cases have declined by 92 percent statewide since the start of the year.
“Based on those numbers, there is no justification for requiring residents, including children, to be required to wear masks,” said McLaughlin.
Neighboring Massachsetts has also dropped the mask mandate, including for children.
“It is time for common sense to make a return to our state policies in dealing with COVID-19. Cases are dropping and the masks should also come off,” added McLaughlin.