TSA stops mask mandate after Florida federal judge voids mandate

United States District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle of the Middle District of Florida said “the mandate exceeds the statutory authority of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.” The judge's decision freed airlines, airports and mass transit systems to make their own decisions about mask requirements,

In her 59-page ruling, Mizelle said the only remedy was to vacate the rule entirely across the country because it would be impossible to end it for the limited group of people who objected in the lawsuit. The judge said “a limited remedy would be no remedy at all” and courts have full authority to make a decision such as this — even if the CDC's goals in fighting the virus are laudable.

Many U.S. airlines announced Monday that masks are now optional on their planes . Companies such as Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines and JetBlue are among them as of Monday afternoon.

“Due to today’s court ruling, effective immediately, TSA will no longer enforce its Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs. TSA will also rescind the new Security Directives that were scheduled to take effect tomorrow. CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time.” TSA Announced via Twitter

White House press secretary Jen called the ruling "disappointing" during a briefing on Monday

Philadelphia will be the first major U.S. city to return to requiring a mask at all restaurants, shops, schools, offices and other indoor public spaces.