Mask mandates disappear as COVID cases rise

If you’re traveling in the US - whether it’s by plane, bus, or train, you’re no longer required to wear a mask. The change comes after a federal judge earlier this week struck down the Biden administration’s public transit mask mandate. Almost immediately, airlines and other transportation companies like Amtrak and Uber lifted their mask requirements as well. These announcements come as COVID cases are starting to tick back up - 43% in the last two weeks. Plus, the link between how much energy we consume and our health and happiness. And, American Airlines resumes practice flights for kids who have autism. Guests: Axios' Tina Reed and Ben Geman. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, and Lydia McMullen-Laird. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at podcasts@axios.com. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Go deeper: America's new mask divide Where the energy link to well-being starts fraying