Quebec Lifts COVID-19 Mask Mandate On Public Transit

As of June 18, 2022, masks are no longer mandatory for public transit users across Quebec.

While the mask mandate for indoor enclosed spaces ended back on May 14, the government extended the mandate for a handful of public areas, including public transit.

Now, masking up in the metro, busses or any other form of public transit, including Uber, is now voluntary.

"As of today, it is no longer mandatory to wear a mask or face covering in our vehicles. It is now an individual decision, depending on each person's need and preference. We reiterate the importance of respecting each other's decisions," the STM tweeted.

Quebec lifting mandatory masks for public transit users is the first major COVID-19 restriction to end following the official termination of the province's health emergency on June 1.

News about lifting the mask mandate on public transit first came up earlier this month when Health Minister Christian Dubé shared the province's decision to move forward with easing more COVID-19 measures.

"This is an important step, which confirms the significant improvement of the epidemiological situation in recent weeks," Dubé said. "The decision to wear a mask, both in public places and on public transit, will remain a personal choice."

Masking up will still be mandatory in health care facilities including senior homes (CHSLDs), hospitals and CLSCs across the province.

Mask rules do not apply to psychiatric hospitals and clinics that exclusively offer mental health services. Additionally, masks are required to be worn by those who have received a positive COVID-19 test result, for five days following their initial five-day isolation period, in all spaces.