Several Virginia districts are suing over Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s mask mandate ban.
Background: On his first day in office, Virginia Governor Youngkin announced an executive order to end mask mandates.
The order allows parents to opt their children out of the school mask requirements.
The lawsuit is separate from a petition from state Attorney General Jason Miyares.
I've asked the Supreme Court of Virginia to dismiss the lawsuit against Governor Youngkin and Executive Order two, which restores authority to parents to make the best decision for their children.
— Jason Miyares (@JasonMiyaresVA) January 21, 2022
With our filing, we again affirm that parents matter. pic.twitter.com/6F3E0TBjmA
What Happened: Seven Virginia school districts are attempting to challenge the implementation of Gov. Youngkin’s order.
–Fairfax County Public Schools
–Alexandria City Public Schools
–Arlington Public Schools
–Falls Church City Public Schools
–Hampton City Schools
–Prince William County Public Schools
–Richmond Public Schools
“Today’s action is not politically motivated … the lawsuit is not brought out of choice but out of necessity,” the districts said. (per The Washington Examiner)
What Happens Next: While litigation is pending Gov. Youngkin says parents should adhere to the mask mandate.
What Republicans Say: Conservative shave praised Youngkin’s push to put parents back in charge of health decisions for their children. Asra Nomani of the parent activist group Parents Defending Education blasted some school districts for blatantly ignoring parents.
“Parents elected Gov. Glenn Youngkin to office to win back parental rights over issues from what is taught in schools to whether a child wears a mask at school,” Nomani said. “Mr. Brabrand, who is on his way out as superintendent, is setting up a showdown with Gov. Youngkin — and parents.”
