New Mexico’s indoor mask mandate extended through Oct. 15

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico’s indoor mask mandate will now be extended through at least Oct. 15, according to the governor’s office.

The indoor mask mandate was reimplemented Aug. 20 and was set to remain in effect until Sept. 15.

Under the public health order, the mask requirement applies to all individuals age 2 and older in all indoor public settings – except when eating or drinking. State officials said businesses, houses of worship and other entities may enact stricter requirements at their discretion.

The state reported a decrease in the seven-day average COVID-19 test positivity rate from 9% as of Aug. 16 to 6.5%, as of Sept. 14. However, statewide hospitalizations have remained steady over the past month and hospital beds are in short supply.

The governor may lift or extend the requirement, as necessary, depending on the analysis of state health officials and the Medical Advisory Team. The mandate is in effect regardless of vaccination status and with limited exceptions.