KU to lift outdoor mask mandate

Faculty, staff and students:

Yesterday the Centers for Disease Control issued new recommendations stating that fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing. Soon after, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced that the state is adopting that guidance.

In light of these developments, the University of Kansas will be lifting its outdoor mask mandate on the Lawrence and Edwards campuses, effective immediately. At this time, the university will continue to require masks in indoor settings, and in all situations in which social distancing cannot be ensured, as stated in the April 14 Douglas County Health Order.

County health officials are evaluating the new CDC guidance and will address it at the next County Commission meeting May 19. We will update you on any developments from that meeting that might further influence campus policies.

In the meantime, we continue to encourage all members of the community to get vaccinated and to continue social distancing and wearing masks when appropriate.

Sincerely,

Mike Rounds
Vice Provost for Human Resource Management, Public Safety and Operations