Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, says the city is dropping mask requirements for k-12 schools.
It is also lifting proof of vaccine mandates for restaurants and theatres starting next Monday.
New York is one of many cities and states across the country that are relaxing COVID-19 rules after health officials released new guidelines and hospitalisations fell.
Adams made this announcement at a press conference in Times Square, New York on Friday.
He encouraged people to “come in and enjoy the restaurants, enjoy the businesses, and be a part of this great city without having to show proof of vaccinations.”
In schools, he said, parents would still be allowed to mask their kids.
“I know that some who state that they still want their children to wear their masks, you can. We are not going to get in the way of your discretion,” he said.
