With unanimous approval from the board of directors for the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County on June 25, all riders, employees, contractors and visitors are now required to wear a face covering in all vehicles, facilities and transit centers, effective immediately.

The new rule is consistent with Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s June 19 signed order mandating everyone over age 10 wear a face covering while in businesses or on commercial properties, which began June 22 and will continue until June 30 unless extended further.

With the new rule now in place, METRO will return to fare collection beginning July 12, according to the news release. At that time, front door boarding and exiting will also resume, and boarding from the rear door will not be allowed.

Protective shields are being installed between riders and bus operators, and riders will have access to hand sanitizer while on board, according to the release.

In addition, METRO will reopen the RideStore at the Downtown Transit Center at 1900 Main St., Houston, on July 6.