MASK ON, MASK OFF, MASK ON: Judge Grants Stay In NY Mask Mandate Case, Keeping It In Effect Pending Appeal

NEW YORK (WABC) -- A New York Appellate Judge granted a stay in the state's lawsuit over the COVID-19 face mask mandate, meaning it remains in place while case is appealed -- and schools must enforce it.

New York State had quickly filed an appeal after a Supreme Court judge in Nassau Count ruled that the New York's mask mandate couldn't be enforced.

The mandate had been reinstituted over concerns about a winter surge of coronavirus cases.

"As governor, my top priority is protecting the people of this state," Gov. Kathy Hochul said after the stay was granted.

"These measures are critical tools to prevent the spread of COVID-19, make schools and businesses safe, and save lives. I commend the Attorney General for her defense of the health and safety of New Yorkers, and applaud the Appellate Division, Second Department for siding with common sense and granting an interim stay to keep the state's important masking regulations in place. We will not stop fighting to protect New Yorkers, and we are confident we will continue to prevail."

However, some districts told parents that masks in classes were optional Tuesday, until the appeal was formally filed, leading to confusion in nearly two dozen districts... 

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https://abc7ny.com/mask-mandate-new-york-schools-masks-in/11507205/