WHEREAS, the medical community has recognized the benefits of face mask wearing in reducing the spread of the coronavirus

WHEREAS, air travel  involves situations where social distancing is impossible

WHEREAS, the Department of Transportation remained silent for the first three months of the coronavirus

WHEREAS, the DOT’s silence forced airlines and airports to develop their own policies

WHEREAS, the DOT merely recommended various safety precautions be undertaken by the airlines, including maskwearing

WHEREAS, passenger safety should not be left up to competition

WHEREFORE, the undersigned petition the Department of Transportation to mandate the wearing of face masks on airplanes and at airports.