NBC New York reports that while COVID-19 deaths and cases continue locally and worldwide, Gov. Kathy Hochul is ending mask mandates on mass transit in the state. "Masks are encouraged but optional on our mass transit across our state of New York," Hochul said. "If you choose not to have a mask, it's your own risk assessment. You make your own determination but do not judge your fellow passengers on what their choices are." Masks are still required in health care facilities, nursing homes, jails, prisons, and domestic violence shelters. Even as more COVID-19 cases and deaths are reported locally and globally, masks are coming off. The mask mandate "was there for the right reason, to protect our health," Hochul said. "This is watching the trends and we're seeing a stabilization. We're very optimistic that we will be assuring each others' safety." Read the full story at NBC New York.