URI Requiring Masks Regardless Of COVID-19 Vaccination Status

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI — The University of Rhode Island is now requiring masks indoors on campus for all students, staff, faculty and visitors, regardless of vaccination status.

A university spokesperson said the decision is consistent with state officials, as of Friday, requiring all employees and visitors at state buildings to wear a mask, even if they are vaccinated. Like the state, URI will also allow exemptions for those with documented medical reasons for not wearing a face covering. Student-athletes also won't have to wear masks when practicing or competing in games, though they'll have to for all other team activities.

A university spokesperson said the school is making this step as it prepares to welcome 17,000 students and nearly 3,000 employees back to campus next month.

"We hope that by taking this step, our students and the URI community can return to a "near normal" fall semester and participate in a full range of on-campus activities," the university said in a statement. "We cannot state strongly enough that widespread vaccination among students, faculty and staff is the best way to ensure that the University community is able to enjoy a dynamic and comprehensive in-person experience in the fall."

Also read: RI Becomes 1st State To Require COVID-19 Vaccines At All Colleges

School officials said they'll continue following COVID-19 data closely and will monitor developments with the delta variant.