The state’s mask mandate may be lifting, but confusion persists

PITTSBURGH — Starting Monday Pennsylvanians can enjoy this summer mask-free.

The state is lifting its mask mandate on June 28 after Pennsylvania hit a milestone of 70% of adults receiving at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Great news to many after a long pandemic, there’s still some mask confusion.

Private businesses like Juniper Grill on Rt. 228 in Cranberry Township can still require them.

“We’ve been following the CDC throughout the whole thing. We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, we just want to do what’s asked of us,” said Michael Diaddigo, vice president of operations for the Juniper Grill. “We’re not asking anyone for a card or proof of vaccination anything like that.”

The restaurant still plans to enforce masks for workers and customers not vaccinated.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration advised that fully vaccinated workers don’t need to mask up or social distance in low risk work areas— but workers not vaccinated still should.

OSHA also suggests employers encourage employees to get the vaccine.

“I think OSHA and the CDC are giving the same message just in a different way,” said Diaddigo.

However, some other local businesses are not enforcing masks past Monday including Cenci’s Pizzeria & Bar on Rt. 228 in Cranberry. Co-owner Mike Cenci said he’s relieved the mandate will be over.

“We are excited because everyone is over wearing masks and ready to get back to normal life,” he said.

Still, Cenci said he understands if some at the restaurant will still opt to wear masks.

“I think if you want to wear a mask and feel comfortable and safe to wear a mask you should wear a mask, and if you don’t want to wear one, you don’t have to wear one anymore,” Cenci said.

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