Parents Could Opt Out Of School Mask Mandates In Proposed PA Bill

HARRISBURG, PA — Parents and legal guardians would be able to opt out of any school district's mask mandate under legislation soon to be introduced in the state Senate.

Senators Doug Mastriano of Franklin County and Judy Ward of Blair County say their proposed bill would require all school districts to adhere to a mask opt-out form. The document would clearly state that the student won't be isolated, separated from classmates or prohibited from participating in school activities.

Mask mandates "are being implemented despite limited data that clearly demonstrates the benefits of mask-wearing in a school setting," the pair wrote in a recent memo to colleagues.

"We believe that parents and legal guardians have the fundamental right to make health and educational decisions that are best suited for their children."

In their request for co-sponsors for the bill, Mastriano and Ward said they have heard from parents around the state regarding the negative effects wearing masks in the classroom, including:

• Adverse health effects.
• Inhibited breathing.
• Stunted psychological development.
• Decreased communication skills with other students.
• Learning impairment.

The memo did not indicate when the legislation will be introduced. If the bill passes the Senate, a similar measure would have to be passed in the House and then signed by Gov. Tom Wolf to become state law.

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