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Shelby County Mask Mandate To Start Tuesday For Schools, After Judge Issues Temporary Order

Blake FarmerWPLN News (file)
School bus drivers in Robertson County don't work enough hours to qualify for the health plan, making recruitment especially challenging. Districts across the state are seeing staffing challenges.
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A Shelby County judge granted a temporary restraining order Friday afternoon in the case over masking in schools. Starting Tuesday, a mask mandate, without the option to opt out, will be in effect.

The lawsuit alleges that Gov. Bill Lee’s executive order violates the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Schwaigert family isat the center of the case. Their child is at high risk for severe complications if they were to contract COVID-19. Their attorney Bryce Ashby believes it’ll have an effect on how other school districts approach masking.

“What it means is other school districts are now going to have to consider the reasonable accommodation of a universal masking policy if it’s raised by medically vulnerable children.” Asbhy says.

Parents in Knox County filed similar litigation Thursday.

The case could also be a preview for what’s to come from the U.S. Department of Education’s investigation into whether Lee’s executive order violates the ADA.

Filed Under: Coronavirus Live Updates, Education, WPLN News

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Blaise Gainey, Political Reporter

Blaise Gainey is the youngest of three siblings, husband and father of two. He previously held the State Government Reporter position for WFSU News in Tallahassee. He is from Apopka, Fla., and graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He previously worked for The Florida Channel and WTXL-TV. He is excited to move to another capital and report on state government. In his spare time, he enjoys watching sports, outdoor activities and enjoying family time.

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