RIPTA Mask Mandate Extended To January

PROVIDENCE, RI — Masks are here to stay on Rhode Island public transportation. Following the extension of a federal mandate, masks will be required on Rhode Island Public Transit Authority until at least next year.

The mandate comes from the Transportation Security Administration, which extended the requirement for mask-wearing on all public transportation until Jan. 18, 2022. That includes "all transportation networks throughout the United States, including at airports, onboard commercial aircraft, on over-the-road buses, and on commuter bus and rail systems, airplanes, public transportation, and intercity surface transportation."

"RIPTA will continue to follow all pertinent mandates and advisories as we work to keep our passengers and employees safe," CEO Scott Avedisian said.

This is the second time the public transportation mask mandate was extended. It was first put in place Jan. 31, and was initially set to expire Sept. 13.

The mandate does not apply to passengers under the age of 2 or anyone with a disability that prevents them from safely wearing a mask. To obtain an exemption, reach out to RIPTA's customer service department by calling 401-784-9500, ext. 2012 before riding.