Mask on/mask off: The air was a little sweeter for some New Yorkers on Wednesday when the COVID-19 mask mandate was lifted across the state. Fully vaccinated people no longer have to wear masks or social distance around others, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Capacity limits are now lifted for most businesses, as well as restaurants, offices, churches, museums and theaters. “New York is coming back, and it’s a testament to the strength and grit of New Yorkers who banded together, stayed tough, and fought as one to defeat this COVID beast,” the governor said.
