Mask mandates ending in Oklahoma’s two largest cities

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Mask mandates intended to slow the spread of the coronavirus are ending in Oklahoma’s two largest cities. The requirement ended on Friday in Oklahoma City and comes to an end starting Saturday in Tulsa, although the requirements continue at places such as city offices.

Mayors David Holt in Oklahoma City and G.T. Bynum in Tulsa both credited virus vaccinations for lowering the number of virus cases and hospitalizations and encouraged people to get vaccinations and wear masks when in groups of people not related to them.

Private businesses in both cities can continue requiring masks if desired.

The CDC still recommends masks in most indoor settings. Per their latest guidance, unmasked gatherings are safest for small groups of fully vaccinated individuals.