A message from Commissioner McCosh: Reopening updates

A weekly message from Commissioner McCosh in support of the local disability community.

Dear Disability Community Members,

Mayor Janey recently announced that the City of Boston will lift COVID-19 restrictions on the same timeline as the state reopening guidelines — all restrictions will be lifted on May 29th, 2021.

Effective May 29

Effective May 29, all industries will be permitted to open. With the exception of the remaining face-covering requirements (see below), all industry restrictions will be lifted. This means that capacity will increase to 100% for all industries and there is no longer a limit on private gatherings.

All industries will continue to be encouraged to follow CDC guidance for cleaning and hygiene protocols.

For the most recent information, please visit Reopening in Boston.

Face Covering Guidance:

In line with updated CDC face covering guidance, the current face covering order will be rescinded and a new face covering advisory will be issued effective May 29.

Face coverings will still be required for all individuals on public and shared private transportation (including rideshares, livery, taxi, ferries, MBTA, Commuter Rail and transportation stations).
Face coverings will still be required in healthcare facilities, in congregate care settings, and for health and rehabilitative day services.
Face coverings will also remain required indoors for staff and students of K-12 schools and early education providers, and other locations that serve vulnerable populations.

Governor Baker will end the State of Emergency June 15, and more guidance is expected for municipalities and the public as emergency measures and authorizations for pilot programs sunset.

Non-vaccinated individuals are advised to continue wearing face masks and to continue distancing in most settings especially indoors. The advisory will also recommend fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear a face covering or social distance indoors or outdoors except for in certain situations.

The COVID-19 vaccine is still a critical part of allowing these reopening efforts to continue. People age 12 and older who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can get vaccinated against COVID-19. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective, and you don't need an ID or insurance to get it. I encourage anyone who is not yet vaccinated to get the shot as soon as you can. Visit mass.gov/COVIDvaccine or call 617-635-5555 for assistance.

My staff and I look forward to returning to a full — and safe! — expansion of our services soon.

As always, please feel free to reach out to us if you need assistance. You can dial 311 to reach City Hall, or call us and leave a message at 617-635-3682. If you prefer to reach out via email, our email is disability@boston.gov and the latest updates are available at Boston.gov.

Until next week, please enjoy the nice weather, stay updated, stay safe!

Sincerely,

Commissioner Kristen McCosh