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Michigan State removes outdoor campus mask mandate

May 10, 2021
<p>A sign requiring face coverings posted outside Olin Health Center on Aug. 24, 2020.</p>

A sign requiring face coverings posted outside Olin Health Center on Aug. 24, 2020.

Photo by Matt Schmucker | The State News

Effective Monday, Michigan State has removed its outdoor campus mask mandate for individuals and small gatherings, according to an email from President Samuel L. Stanley Jr.

This change is only for outdoors and people must still wear masks in indoor spaces on campus.

The city of East Lansing is also considering removing its mandate. If the policy resolution is passed, the mandate will be removed effective Wednesday, May 12.

Under the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, masks are not required outdoors for gatherings under 100 people. Stanley clarified that masks will still be required for the College of Law outdoor in-person graduation ceremony Friday, May 14, which will have 500 people in attendance.

The Early Detection Program remains mandatory this summer for undergraduate students living, working or coming to campus for any reason. Other members of the MSU community may still volunteer in the program. Those not yet registered can register online.

MSU will be reducing hours for COVID-19 testing at Spartan Stadium beginning May 17. Testing will be available from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Those who took a test should expect results the same day.

Following the state's MI Vacc to Normal plan, Stanley said the university is monitoring state vaccine levels for the university's return to campus plan this fall.

Stanley continued to ask the community to get a vaccine, wherever they are.

"It is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself, your family and friends and your fellow Spartans," he said.

The MSU Pavilion and the MSU Health Care Pharmacy are open for vaccinations.

"We are all looking forward to the summer, warmer weather and a chance to recharge," Stanley said. "And just beyond that, a return to our beautiful campus where we can reconnect with one another. The more people in our community who receive the vaccine gets us closer to a more normal experience, together, in the fall."

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