by Matt Wright
On Wednesday afternoon, November 10, 2021, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, said he will sign an omnibus bill that will restrict many COVID-19 measures in the State of Tennessee. The bill, which was part of a special called legislative session two weeks ago, was approved on October 30, 2021. The bill has been sitting on Governor Lee’s desk awaiting his signature since it was passed.
Of the many aspects of the bill, the overarching theme is to limit the authority of local agencies like the Shelby County Health Department. Much of that authority will now rest with the Tennessee Department of Health. Up until this point, local health departments could make their own rules and restrictions for their county which is why restrictions changed from county to county across the state. The new law will be applied equitability to all citizens, in all counties, across the state.
One of the immediate changes that would impact Lakeland students and staff would be the restriction of a mask requirement at school. According to the law, a mask will no longer be mandatory except in rare, certain conditions. The bill also bans government entities from requiring a COVID-19 vaccine.
When reached for comment, Dr. Ted Horrell, Superintendent of Lakeland School System, said the school system will communicate directly with parents and staff once the bill has been signed into law. “We always want to be certain that the change is effective and that we understand the implications prior to any communication, but we will continue to strive to communicate as quickly and clearly as possible,” Dr. Horrell said. Lakeland School Board Member, Laura Harrison, also confirmed they are staying in communication with board attorneys, so they have the latest information.
Of the many changes to state law, here’s an overview that would affect Lakeland schools:
- Bans government entities and public schools from requiring masks, unless severe conditions arise within the school. Specifically, it allows for a 14-day mask mandate for schools, during severe conditions (1,000 cases for every 100,000 residents in the past 14 days)
- Bans government entities, public schools and many private businesses from vaccine requirements, but certain exceptions could apply.
- Requires schools to provide a N-95 type masks (or something similar) to those requesting one.
- Allow the health commissioner exclusive power to design quarantine guidelines across the state.
