FL COVID News: DeSantis’ School Mask Rule ‘Unconstitutional’

FLORIDA — As COVID-19 cases surge in Florida, here are some Patch headlines you might have missed this week.

Hospital Expands Morgue Capacity By Leasing Refrigerated Trailer

To increase its morgue capacity, Sarasota Memorial Hospital has leased a refrigerated trailer, as COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths continue to increase in the hospital system.

Tampa Mayor Mandates That All City Employees Be Vaccinated

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor announced Wednesday that COVID-19 vaccinations are required for all city employees. Employees, including those who are union members, must be vaccinated by Sept. 30 or show proof of having COVID-19 antibodies.

Sheriff's Office COVID-19 Outbreak: Nearly 100 Employees Out Sick

Some sheriff's office employees are coming to work despite testing positive for COVID-19. Officials are begging them to stay home.

Disney World Reaches Union Deal Requiring COVID Vaccines: Union

Most Walt Disney World employees will be required to get the COVID-19 vaccine after the Orlando theme park and the Services Trades Council Union reached an agreement Monday.

Teacher Loved By Students, Faculty At Lake Shipp Dies Of COVID-19

A 41-year-old teacher at Lake Shipp Elementary School died of COVID-19 Monday morning, according to school officials. Kelly Peterson taught fifth grade at Lake Shipp, the school's website said.

Related Stories:

• Teacher Who Got Sick Before School Started Dies Of COVID: Report
• COVID-19 Claims Life Of Manatee County Deputy: Sheriff
• St. Pete Police Officer's Life Lost To COVID-19
• COVID-19 Kills Polk County Sheriff Deputy, Father Of 5

Families Defeat Gov. Ron DeSantis Over FL School Mask Lawsuit

A Florida judge ruled Friday that Gov. Ron DeSantis' executive order banning mask mandates in schools was unconstitutional, rejecting many of the DeSantis administration's claims. The decision clears the way for school districts to impose mask requirements, without state penalties, as COVID-19 cases surge to record highs in the state.

Related stories:

• Masks, Vaccines In Schools Supported By Floridians: Patch
• FL Doctor Fired For Selling $50 Mask Exemption Letters: Report
• Despite Court Ruling, Pasco To Keep Masks Voluntary In Schools
• Lincoln Project Video On Masks, Vaccines Stars Sarasota Candidate

In other Florida COVID-19 news:

• Jury Trials Suspended In Sarasota, Manatee DeSoto Counties
• New COVID-19 Testing Site Opens At Ed Smith Stadium
• School Mask Mandate Extended In Manatee County: Report
• COVID-19 Testing No Longer Available At Palmetto Bus Station
• Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Clinic Opens In Lakeland: DeSantis
• Hillsborough Residents Eager To Sign Up For Antibody Treatments
• State Opens Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Site In Clearwater
• COVID-19 Vaccination Site Now Open At Lee Davis Community Center