The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday appealed Monday's ruling by a federal judge in Florida that struck down the Biden administration's mask mandate for public transit.

The news followed a statement from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), issued at the DOJ's request, recommending the continued use of masks on planes, trains and other public transportation.

The CDC said:

"It is CDC's continuing assessment that at this time an order requiring masking in the indoor transportation corridor remains necessary for the public health. CDC will continue to monitor public health conditions to determine whether such an order remains necessary. CDC believes this is a lawful order, well within CDC's legal authority to protect public health."

The DOJ filed the appeal in the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, and said it may ask the court to stay the judge's injunction while the case proceeds.

For now, the Florida ruling vacating the mandate stands.