By Steven Bonifazi
(DENVER, Colo.) Coloradans are no longer required to wear a mask statewide as the state's mask mandate was lifted by Gov. Jared Polis on Friday.
According to The Denver Gazette, both vaccinated or unvaccinated people are now not required by the state to wear masks, with masking being a recommendation rather than a requirement. Nevertheless, masks are still required in settings such as schools, prisons and jails, hospitals, care facilities and child care businesses until June 1.
Also in place through June 1 are the state's restrictions for large events of 500 people or more. Polis believes that the lifted mask mandate will change that.
"This is a big step," said Polis. "We've reached a level of immunity where the pandemic isn't over but we're safer."
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced Thursday that people who are fully vaccinated do not have to wear masks indoors anymore. Polis admitted that despite the mask mandate being lifted, some businesses within the state are still requiring masks and that residents should adhere to those choices by said businesses.
Polis additionally stated that he feels that the lifting of the mask requirement will help encourage people to receive the vaccination.
Denver7 reports that Colorado health officials estimate that approximately 75 - 80% of Colorado residents would like to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, with under 40% of Coloradans having been fully vaccinated.
"The pandemic is not over," said Polis, "but if you are vaccinated, it is largely over for you."