On Friday afternoon Mayor LaToya Cantrell lifted the mask mandate in New Orleans.
Her action follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention easing of the mask-wearing guidance. Orleans Parish is also now leading the state in vaccinated residents, with about 40% now eligible to go without the mask. Those who are not vaccinated are still being urged to mask up and socially distance.
Meanwhile at a state level, Gov. John Bel Edwards said that state government buildings will not require staff to wear a mask. However, Gov. Edwards said masks would be required in medical facilities, K-12 schools, prisons and on public transportation.
While the mayor is lifting mask restrictions in New Orleans for the fully vaccinated, gathering sizes and the 1 a.m. time restrictions for bars will stay in place.
