Ohio’s statewide mask mandate was lifted on Wednesday, June 2, 2021 in compliance with the CDC guidelines.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced on Wednesday, May 12, that he will be lifting the mask mandate and other statewide restrictions starting June 2. DeWine believes three weeks is enough time for residents to get their last-minute vaccinations before the state lifts these restrictions fully.
Restaurants, retailers, bars, and gyms are free to lift their mandate if they choose to. The only exceptions will be hospitals, medical care facilities, and nursing homes, which will still require masks.
The number of Covid-19 cases in Ohio has steadily declined since the announcement of a Covid-19 vaccine. On Wednesday, May 19, Ohio saw a daily count of 907 cases of covid-19, down 35 percent from two weeks ago.
On Sunday, May 16, the CDC released a statement saying people who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks anymore, as long as other guidelines are being followed, such as social distancing and washing hands. They are also able to resume activities done before the start of the pandemic.
In a further effort to push for vaccinations, DeWine has started the Vax-A-Million campaign, where anyone who is vaccinated, or in the process of being vaccinated, can sign up and enter for a chance to win a $1 million weekly lottery or a full-ride scholarship to any Ohio school.
Currently, 38 percent of the state is fully vaccinated and 43 percent have started the vaccination process. This number is expected to rise with the announcement of the lottery.
In an effort to comply with CDC guidelines, some businesses are allowing vaccinated people to enter their establishments with no mask requirements. Places such as Target and Sam’s Club have started the change early instead of waiting until June 2 to enforce the new regulations.
Companies also have the choice of keeping their mask mandate if they so choose, although companies making this choice may run the risk of a possible negative backlash.
In order to enter the weekly lottery drawing, people must first be registered. To do so, go to www.ohiovaxamillion.com and follow the prompts. People must provide their name, address, phone number, date of birth, and vaccination information to register.
Kris Johnson
Intern