Bexar County Goverment: Bexar County DA To Defer To TEA On Mask Mandates

Press release from the Bexar County Government:

August 26, 2021

District Attorney Joe Gonzales issued the following statement regarding inquiries about how Bexar County’s schools should respond to today’s order by the Texas Supreme Court:

“On August 19, 2021, the Texas Education Agency issued guidance which stated in part that “mask provisions of GA-38 are not being enforced as the result of ongoing litigation.” At this time, my office will defer to this guidance issued by TEA, and no prosecutions of school district officials within my jurisdiction as Bexar County District Attorney will occur as a result of those issuing mask mandates. I understand that this litigation has been confusing for public officials, administrators and, most importantly, the public. Rest assured that we are working tirelessly to protect those who cannot protect themselves. I continue to urge those who are eligible for a COVID vaccine and/or a booster to get vaccinated and to continue to wear a mask to prevent the spread of this virus.”

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff issued the following statement:

“We’re disappointed with the Supreme Court’s decision today. I support the position of the District Attorney and thank him for all of his hard work and, most importantly, for his commitment to protecting the health and safety of our most vulnerable population. I also hope that our school districts will continue to put our children and our educators first during this time and continue with their masking protocols.”

This press release was produced by the Bexar County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.