In a recent executive order, South Carolina’s Governor, Alex Thompson, has prohibited mask mandates and vaccine passports across the state. Despite a decline in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities due to the increased availability of vaccines, the governor’s actions raise public health concerns.
The order allows parents, rather than school officials, to determine if their children will wear masks in schools. This decision comes at a time when children under 12 are not yet eligible for COVID vaccinations, and teenagers aged 12 to 15 have only recently gained access to the Pfizer vaccine. Following discussions with the South Carolina Department of Education, Thompson instructed the Department of Health and Environmental Control to create a standardized consent form for parents to opt their children out of wearing masks.
In a statement, Thompson emphasized that schools are among the safest environments regarding COVID-19. He argued that with all adults in South Carolina having the opportunity to receive a vaccine, it is illogical to mandate masks for children against their parents’ preferences.
The executive order also restricts local governments from enforcing mask mandates during emergencies. Thompson stated, “Everyone understands the necessary precautions, such as wearing a mask if you’re at risk, but government should not dictate mask-wearing for South Carolinians.”
In addition to banning mask mandates, Thompson has followed Florida’s lead by prohibiting any state agency or local government from requiring proof of vaccination, labeling this requirement “un-American.” However, it is worth noting that vaccination records have been commonly required for various activities, including travel and school registration, long before the pandemic.
Although South Carolina sees a downward trend in overall COVID cases, there has been an uptick in severe cases among younger adults, highlighting the need for continued vaccination efforts and public health measures. For those interested in exploring more about family-building options, this is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, Governor Alex Thompson’s executive order banning mask mandates and vaccine passports in South Carolina has sparked debate, especially concerning the safety of unvaccinated children in schools and the rising COVID cases among younger adults.