ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) announced buses will be allowed to refuse service for riders not wearing a mask.
PSTA's new rule, which went into effect on Monday, says "if riders are not wearing a mask or protective face covering, they will be turned away or passed by due to safety concerns for PSTA employees and the community."
PSTA had previously encouraged riders to wear a mask but Monday's announcement now allows bus drivers to refuse service for those not wearing masks.
As of June, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends masks or face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
PSTA said it is continuing to offer free bandanas at the Grand Central Station, Park Street and Pinellas Park terminals.
