CDC Mask Guidelines Eased, Iowa Mask Mandates Removed

A+disposable+mask+rests+on+a+trash+can+outside+of+Kennedy.

Merideth Langton

A disposable mask rests on a trash can outside of Kennedy.

On May 13, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new guidelines regarding masks and social distancing. People who are fully vaccinated no longer have to wear masks in most indoor and outdoor areas. You are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after your second dose of the vaccine. Even with these new guidelines, the CDC still recommends to wear a mask to protect yourself and others.

On May 20, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a law banning mask mandates in schools. This means superintendents, principals and other school administration can’t require students to wear masks, starting today. It is unclear if this applies to school buses due to a federal mask mandate for public transportation. 

Vaccines are available for everyone at least age 12. Those who want more information on vaccines can go to the district website.