In a statement, Texas Governor Greg Abbott's office says every Texan has the right to choose whether they will wear a mask, or have their children wear masks.
Clay Robison with the Texas State Teachers Association says Gov. Abbott can talk about personal responsibility all he wants. "Personal responsibility is very important, but the governor of Texas has an official responsibility to do his best to protect the health and safety of his constituents, and that includes educators and public school children."
The statement from the governor's press secretary reads "Governor Abbott has been clear that the time for government mandating of masks is over-now is the time for personal responsibility. Every Texan has the right to choose whether they will wear a mask, or have their children wear masks.
Vaccines are the most effective defense against contracting COVID and becoming seriously ill, and we continue to urge all eligible Texans to get the vaccine. The COVID vaccine will always remain voluntary and never forced in Texas."
Robison would like to see local school districts be given the authority and flexibility to require masks. Kids under 12 can't be vaccinated. He says educators and students are ready to go back into the classroom. He says they won't be safe unless they are allowed to issue mask mandates.
Robison notes many Texans refuse to get vaccinated because they do not trust the science. "Other people, it's a political issue, but hopefully none of their children will end up in an ICU in a hospital. That could be a tragedy."
Children under 12 are not eligible to receive a COVID vaccine.
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