The Transportation Security Administration said it will increase civil penalties for those who violate the federal mask mandate at airports, on aircraft and in other forms of public transportation.

In a statement Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security announced that from Friday those who are caught violating the mask mandate will be fined between $500 and $1,000 for a first offense and $1,000 and $3,000 for a second offense.

The federal mask mandate implemented Feb. 2 and which expires Jan. 18 of next year requires those to wear masks at airports and while riding in airplanes, trains, intercity buses and other forms of public transportation.

“Wearing a mask protects the traveling public and all of the personnel who make the travel experience safe, secure and comfortable,” Homeland Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. “We will continue to enforce the mask mandate as long as necessary to protect public health and safety.”

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