Uber ends mask requirement for passengers, drivers. ‘You can always cancel the trip’
Uber’s mask requirement for passengers and drivers ended in the U.S. as of April 19, the company said.
The move comes a day after the Transportation Security Administration announced an end to the national mask mandate for public transportation — including in airports and public transportation hubs and on planes and trains.
“If you ever feel uncomfortable, you can always cancel the trip,” Uber said in an update to its COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Additionally, riders can now sit in the front seat if needed, the company noted.
“However, to give drivers space, we ask that riders only use the front seat if it’s required because of the size of their group.”
The ride-share company emphasized respecting the decision of others if they choose to wear a mask when traveling with Uber and said it’s still recommended.
“Many people still feel safer wearing a mask because of personal or family health situations.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises wearing a mask “based on your personal preference, informed by your personal level of risk.” Some people can be at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 if they’re immunocompromised.
Additionally, the CDC also recommends mask-wearing on public transportation even though it’s no longer required.
On April 18, a federal judge in Florida ruled that the CDC doesn’t have the authority to keep the mask mandate in place for U.S. travel, McClatchy News reported.
As of April 19, ride-share company Lyft also ended its mask requirement, the company told The Hill in a statement.
“Masks are now optional while riding or driving with Lyft. We know that everyone has different comfort levels, and anyone who wants to continue wearing a mask is encouraged to do so.”
This story was originally published April 19, 2022 at 11:34 AM with the headline "Uber ends mask requirement for passengers, drivers. ‘You can always cancel the trip’."
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