BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - In a major reversal from a highly controversial announcement by New York State last week, the Department of Health has removed the mask mandate for children in daycare facilities.
Last week's announcement infuriated parents, daycare employees and even local politicians, who all viewed the mandate as misguided policy.
Kelly Kronbeck, who operates Imagination Station in the Buffalo area, tells WBEN there were actually two revisions in state guidance Monday evening.
"When they originally came out with the guidance, around 5pm, they said children between the ages of 2 and 5, are encouraged, but not required to wear masks. They issued new guidance around 10pm that said children in child care settings ages 2 and older are not required to wear masks."
Child care centers offer care for children between six weeks and 12 years of age.
"This was a great surprise, we were not expecting it last night," added Kronbeck,
She and others attribute the change to the recent outcry by parents, providers and politicians. "Parents have zero tolerance when it comes to state mandates on their kids. We were also very vocal about starting a lawsuit," she said.
Two lawsuits were going to be filed against the state this week over the mask mandate for children.
"Parents are ecstatic," said Kronbeck. "They're so happy that it applies to all children. So we should have more of a normal Summer, which is wonderful."
This is part of the statement from the New York State Department of Health.
"Responsible Parties should encourage that children/campers age 2 and older who are not fully vaccinated wear face coverings except when eating, drinking, showering, swimming,or sleeping/resting. Young children/campers (i.e.,those that are not yet in kindergarten) do not need to wear face coverings when they are in child care or day camp program facility or area. Older children/campers are encouraged but not required to wear face coverings as feasible."
The entire guidance from the state for child care and camp programs is here.
