Texas Education Agency Won’t Enforce Gov. Abbott’s Mask Mandate Ban

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) announced on Thursday that state public schools will no longer enforce Gov. Greg Abbott’s mask mandate ban.

The TEA cited ongoing court challenges as the reason for enforcement being dropped.

The TEA also issued a public health guidance letter, recommending that public schools should consult health officials and legal counsel when making decisions about mask mandates.

Last month, Abbott issued an emergency order, stating that government entities were not allowed to instate mask mandates.

Despite Abbott’s ban on mask requirements, dozens of entities within the state have mandated masks in their facilities.

With COVID-19 cases rising across Texas, there has been a recent push for stricter masking and social distancing regulation.

Abbott has still continued to stand by his original mask mandate ban.

Article by Elizabeth Letsou