New guidance announced by the states of Oregon and Washington on Monday will lift masking requirements in most public indoor locations and for schools on March 12.  State officials cited improved modeling and changes in federal Centers for Disease Control recommendations in moving up the date to lift the face covering requirements for the second time.  Oregon Health Authority state epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger explained the continued steep drop in COVID-19 hospitalizations in the state is allowing the state to move forward.  Sidelinger said masks will continue to be an important tool for those most at-risk from COVID-19, adding he hopes local officials will make decisions based on their own situations.  Oregon Department of Education director Colt Gill said new guidance will be given to school districts later this week, noting this marks a shift in responsibility from the state to local public health departments and school districts.