Oregon now plans to lift most mask requirements beginning March 12

(MARCH 4, 2022) New cases of COVID-19 in West Coast states have been falling. The number of people in the hospital for COVID-19 has also fallen. Therefore, California, Oregon, and Washington are updating their masking guidance. All three states are changing their mask requirements beginning March 12, 2022.

In Oregon, the Oregon Health Authority rules requiring masks in indoor public places and schools will be lifted after 11:59 p.m. on March 11. Other state and federal requirements, such as those for health care settings, public transit, and other specialized settings, will remain in place for a period of time. Also, individual schools, businesses, and organizations may still require masks; it will be their choice.

Kate Brown is Oregon's governor. She says, “Two years ago today, we identified Oregon’s first case of COVID-19. As has been made clear time and again over the last two years, COVID-19 does not stop at state borders or county lines. On the West Coast, our communities and economies are linked. Together, as we continue to recover from the Omicron surge, we will build resiliency and prepare for the next variant and the next pandemic. As we learn to live with this virus, we must remain vigilant to protect each other and prevent disruption to our schools, businesses, and communities––with a focus on protecting our most vulnerable and the people and communities that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.”