UPDATED - July 20, 2021:
Amtrak has clarified its guidelines for travel to reinforce customer safety, as follows:
Face coverings: Federal law and Amtrak policy require all customers and employees to wear a mask or covering that fully covers the entire mouth and nose, fits snugly against the side of the face, and secures under the chin at all times while onboard trains and in stations, regardless of vaccination status or state or local laws.
Seat availability: Amtrak is no longer limiting capacity. When searching for travel, the percentage of seats sold displays next to each trip option and adjusts as more reservations are made, which gives customers the opportunity to book a train that is less crowded. If capacity exceeds comfort levels, customers can change their ticket without incurring a fee (a fare difference may apply).
Amtrak General Guidance for Travel:
Do not travel when you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or when you meet public health criteria for quarantine. Complete your pre-trip COVID-19 check within 24 hours of departure.
Before traveling on Amtrak, review state-specific travel advisories and restrictions that may be in place for travel to your destination.
The original story of May 2020 as follows:
Amtrak is issuing travel guidelines that aim to reassure customers that several added cleanliness and convenience measures have been implemented on their trains as the country begins to reopen during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
While some routes have been reduced or suspended, Amtrak says it will continue to operate as an essential service. On the Northeast Corridor, Acela will resume on a reduced schedule starting June 1 and other trains will return to service by monitoring demand and working with state partners to prioritize safety.
Amtrak says it is limiting bookings to 50% of each train’s seat capacity to allow for physical distancing while traveling. The transit provider says it will also offer private rooms on many national network trains.
To help keep the traveling public safe and healthy, Amtrak is enhancing cleaning and disinfecting procedures at an increased frequency at both stations and on trains. Signage has been displayed at Amtrak's busiest stations to indicate safe distances in high traffic areas. In addition, clear protective barriers have been installed at customer counters at the busiest stations.
Amtrak is requiring all customers and employees to wear facial coverings while in stations and onboard trains. The rail service says it is aiming to provide a contact-free travel experience through cashless service and contact-free ticketing.
More information about the updated procedures can be found on Amtrak's website.
--------
SOURCE: Amtrak
