Governor Eric Holcomb has signed executive orders that extend the state’s public health emergency through June 30. The governor is also lifting the state’s mask mandate in most situations, with another executive order.
In a news release Friday, Holcomb’s reasoning on the extension was explained. He says the extension will allow certain people who might not normally be authorized to give vaccinations to continue to do so, and it allows the state to continue receiving federal money related to COVID.
The state has been under a public health emergency since March 11, 2020.
The governor has also removed the mask mandate while in state facilities, with the exception of prisons, state hospitals, the Indiana Vetrans Home and the Indiana LAw Enforcement Academy. Masks are also still required at COVID testing and vaccination clinics.
Another order continues the face mask requirement in schools through June 30. Masks, however, are not required outdoors at schools.
Beginning July 1, local school boards will make decisions regarding restrictions or measures needed to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The executive orders also directs Hoosiers to follow CDC guidelines about mask wearing for vaccinated and unvaccinated people.
The orders also waves penalties and interest payments accrued on state income taxes on unemployment wages that must be paid due to HEA 1436.
