COLUMBUS, Ohio — Following new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that eases mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says Ohio will conform.
“Ohio will be amending our remaining health orders to comply with the new CDC guidance, which says that those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks, while those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance," DeWine said in a statement that was issued on Friday. "The CDC still recommends everyone wear masks when they are in a healthcare setting, when they are travelling on public transportation, including airplanes, and when they are in a business or employer that chooses to require masks. Our order will be amended to reflect these recommendations, as well."
Earlier this week, the governor announced that all COVID-19 health orders in Ohio will be removed effective on June 2, with the exception of those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Among the measures being removed are facial covering protocols, social distancing guidelines, and capacity restrictions for indoor and outdoor events.
"The June 2nd date I announced for the removal of health orders provided time for those who had not yet gotten their vaccine to get it. While our order will be amended to reflect the new CDC guidance, it will remain in place until June 2nd," DeWine said in his Friday statement.
“Further, we must remember, that we still have Ohioans who are not eligible to be vaccinated, including those younger than 12 years-of-age. Individuals who have not been vaccinated should continue to wear masks pursuant to CDC recommendations. Businesses also have every right to continue to use masks and to require them for employees and customers. The experience in other states has been that some individuals may choose to wear masks, and many businesses, schools, hospitals, and other employers may choose to require masks in their buildings. That will remain their choice," he added.
As an incentive for Ohioans to get their vaccines, DeWine announced several lucrative promotional opportunities. Starting on May 26th, adults in Ohio who have received at least one dose of the vaccine will be entered into a weekly drawing with a prize of up to $1 million.
A total of five weekly drawings for each prize will take place.
Also starting on May 26, Ohioans under the age of 18 who are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine will be entered into a drawing for a four-year full scholarship to any of Ohio's state colleges and universities, including full tuition, room, and board. The drawing will also be held for five straight Wednesdays -- each time randomly selecting one student to receive the full, four-year scholarship.
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