Massachusetts lifts mask rule; Maine reports 108 new cases

BOSTON (AP) — Coronavirus developments around New England:

MASSACHUSETTS

It’s back to nearly normal in Massachusetts.

Gov. Charlie Baker lifted almost all COVID-19 restrictions on Saturday including a statewide face covering mandate that has been in place during much of the pandemic.

The mandate is being replaced with a mask advisory that echoes recommendations from federal health officials. Unvaccinated individuals are still encouraged to wear masks in public areas, especially indoors.

There are still locations where masks will be required, including on public transportation.

Baker has also said that some businesses may still require customers and visitors to continue wearing masks inside. Customers should respect those businesses and don a mask while inside, he said Friday.

Some of the hardest hit businesses have been restaurants, which can now welcome back visitors for indoor dining without restrictions.

About half the state’s population is fully vaccinated.

Baker will officially lift Massachusetts’ pandemic state of emergency on June 15.

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MAINE

Maine reported 108 new COVID-19 cases and no new deaths Saturday.

The state’s cumulative COVID-19 cases rose to more than 67,600 on Saturday, according to the state’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Since the pandemic began, 825 people have died from COVID-19 in Maine.

The state also lifted most mask restrictions this week. Unvaccinated people are still encouraged to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces.

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VERMONT

The Vermont Education Agency will strongly recommend that schools continue to follow the agency’s COVID-19 prevention measures for the rest of the school year when Vermont’s emergency order...