Texas Mask Mandates Ban Upheld Amid Plans To Defy Governor's Order

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order banning mask mandates will remain in place following an appellate court ruling that allowed schools to issue a mandatory face coverings order in schools.

On Sunday, the State Supreme Court allowed a temporary emergency stay of a lower court ruling that impacted Bexar and Dallas counties, which restored mask mandates over the last few days.

A lower court handed down a decision on Friday to Bexar County, where the city of San Antonio is located, giving local officials the authority to mandate masks in schools. Meanwhile, last week, a judge ordered mask mandates inside businesses and schools in Dallas County.

Although Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton initially failed to block the Dallas County ruling, Paxton was able to appeal to the state Supreme Court.

Despite the recent win for Abbott, San Antonio City Attorney Andy Segovia said Bexar County will continue upholding its mask mandates.

“The City of San Antonio and Bexar County’s response to the Texas Supreme Court continues to emphasize that the Governor cannot use his emergency powers to suspend laws that provide local entities the needed flexibility to act in an emergency,” Segovia said in a statement Sunday.

“His suspension authority is meant to facilitate action, not prohibit it,” he added.

Segovia revealed the county will instead rely on local officials to make the calls when it comes to protecting the community against the coronavirus.

“Bexar County Health Authority Dr. Junda Woo’s health directive mandating the use of masks in public schools from pre-kindergarten through grade 12th remains in effect. City facilities will also continue to require the use of masks for both staff and visitors,” Segovia said.

However, the Irving Independent School District posted a comment on Twitter that it will abide by the ruling.

“This afternoon, the Texas Supreme Court temporarily blocked the masks requirement mandate issued by Dallas County last week, which affects our public schools in Irving,” the tweet reads. “Irving ISD will adhere to the Supreme Court's decision until further guidance on the matter is provided.”

Abbott could face further setbacks on Monday when officials are expected to defend the Bexar County mandate in court.