For Immediate Release:

3:40PM CT on July 27, 2021

Media Contacts:  

Taylor Gage, 402-471-1970

Justin Pinkerman, 402-471-1967

Media Release:

Gov. Ricketts: Nebraska’s Return to Normal Won’t Be Interrupted by New CDC Guidance

LINCOLN – Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance attempting to re-impose mask guidance for vaccinated people.

“The CDC’s new guidance suggesting that vaccinated people wear masks indoors flies in the face of the public health goals that should guide the agency’s decision making.  The CDC announcement only furthers the distrust many have with the CDC and does not help to encourage more people to get the vaccines that are helping bring the pandemic to a conclusion.  The State of Nebraska will not be adopting their mask guidance.”

“Furthermore, I will reiterate my expectations for schools and universities in the fall.  Schools should convene in person without mask or vaccine requirements.”

“Nebraskans exercise personal responsibility for their own health, and are encouraged to have a conversation with their doctor about the vaccine.  These conversations will be important because the virus will be with us forever.  Working together, we’ve successfully protected hospital capacity throughout the pandemic.  It’s time for the CDC and the government to get out of the way, and to stop trying to tell people how to live their lives.”

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