Paris ISD is expecting a cease and desist letter from Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office sent shortly after the district’s attempt at a loophole in Governor Greg Abbott’s executive order preventing mask mandates.
During an emergency called board of trustees meeting, the district added the requirement of face masks to the school’s dress code.
In regard to the expected cease and desist letter, the district did not wish to comment at this time, according to Paris ISD Superintendent Paul Jones.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order prohibiting government entities from mandating masks back in May.
“Attorney General Ken Paxton is committed to protecting the rights and freedoms of all Texans,” according to Paxton’s office. “Executive Order GA-38 prohibits governmental entities and officials from mandating face coverings or vaccines. This order has the force and effect of state law and supersedes local rules and regulations.”
According to Abbott’s order, local governments or officials that attempt to impose a mask mandate or impose a limitation inconsistent or conflicting with the Executive Order can be subject to a fine of up to $1,000.
“Texans, not government, should decide their best health practices, which is why masks will not be mandated by public school districts or government entities. We can continue to mitigate COVID-19 while defending Texans’ liberty to choose whether or not they mask up,” said Abbott.
To view the executive order, click here.
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