Governor Kim Reynolds is lifting the mask mandates she established in mid-November — when the number of Covid patients in Iowa hospitals escalated to levels not previously seen in the pandemic. Gathering limits in bars and restaurants have also been lifted.

Since November 10th, Reynolds had required mask-wearing in public indoor spaces and by the crowds at high school sporting events. She required masks in state-owned buildings that house executive branch agencies. The governor had required masks to be worn inside certain businesses, like hair salons and barbershops. People attending funerals, weddings, and other gatherings were required to socially distance themselves. All of those requirements end Sunday.