In response to COVID-19, the Acting Secretary of Homeland Security issued a declaration on January 27, 2021, stating that a national emergency exists. This declaration directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to implement measures to ensure the safety of individuals using or working in the transportation system. Consistent with previous orders and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the key actions is the requirement for people to wear masks on transportation and at transportation hubs to help reduce the spread of the virus.
Simple Explanation
The government said there is a big health emergency, so now everyone needs to wear masks when they are traveling, like on planes, buses, or trains, to help keep people from getting sick.