"Biden extends mask mandate on public transportation through March, tightens travel restrictions"

"The White House recently announced that a mask mandate will be in place on public transportation throughout the nation until March 18.

An initial mandate was scheduled to expire on January 18. However, concerns about the omicron variant have led health officials to institute new rules governing mask use on public transportation, rail travel and airlines. Moving forward, the fines for people who fail to wear a mask at these locations will be doubled. The minimum fine will be $500, with repeat offenders facing fines of as much as $3000.

The White House also announced that all travelers to the United States will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within a day of boarding the flight. This will apply to all people, regardless of their vaccination status or their nationality...

Airports in Florida have been reminding travelers of the mask requirement in hopes of avoiding confusion; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s highly publicized anti-mask policy is not in effect in airports or bus or train terminals because these locations fall under federal jurisdiction. Violating mask orders from a flight crew is considered a federal offense that can result in a fine, an air travel ban, or jail time.

Airports such as Palm Beach International, Miami International and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International have been sending messages to remind passengers of the requirement and the fact that it is a federal mandate. Under the rules, the masks must remain over people’s mouths and noses at all times. They are permitted to pull their mask down to drink or eat, but they must replace it after each sip or bite.

Meanwhile, the Oregon Health Authority has moved to implement a permanent indoor mask mandate in the state."