'I think it's stupid:' New Yorkers react to possible mask ban on NYC subways
NEW YORK (PIX11) – Gov. Kathy Hochul is considering banning face masks on New York City subways, and New Yorkers are not holding back about how they feel about the measure.
"I think it's stupid," one straphanger told PIX11 News. "I think you should be able to wear a mask in the subway if you want to wear a mask. I wear a mask for public health reasons and also… I just like for people not to see me at the time."
Hochul said the proposal is part of an effort to deter individuals from committing antisemitic acts while hiding their identities. The face mask ban would include exemptions for health, cultural or religious reasons, she added.
"I agree with what she's saying," another subway rider said. "That somebody could use a mask to commit a crime."
She is currently in talks with lawmakers about the measure.
Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.