NH governor will let mask mandate expire on Friday

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R) said Thursday he will not renew the state’s mask mandate, and will let it expire on Friday.

“We’ll continue to work with public health to encourage social distancing and wearing of masks when appropriate. That will not change whatsoever. What does change is the government’s imposed requirement to do so,” Sununu said during a press conference.

New Hampshire is the first state in New England to lift its mask mandate, which has been in place since November.

Sununu said that private businesses, cities, towns, and organizations may continue to keep mask mandates in place.

Anyone over the age of 16 in New Hampshire is eligible to receive a vaccine, and 70 percent of residents over age 65 have gotten a shot. People from out of state will be able to get vaccinated on Monday.

Next up: All remaining restrictions on businesses will be lifted May 7.