New Yorkers react to proposed mask ban on subway

New York’s governor is considering a ban on face masks in the New York City subway system, following what she described as concerns over people shielding their identities while committing antisemitic acts. Hochul told reporters the exact details of the policy are not clear but it would contain “common-sense exemptions” for health, cultural or religious reasons. Many people concerned about COVID-19 and air pollution routinely wear masks on the subway.

Class discussion: Should all face masks be banned to discourage criminal acts? Why or why not? Do some people need to wear masks to protect their health? How could a police officer tell the difference between someone with a compromised immune system from someone planning a robbery? Did you or someone in your family wear a face mask during the COVID-19 pandemic? Should it be easy to change the rules if there is another epidemic or severe smoke pollution like last summer?