On Monday, January 24, a Nassau County Supreme Court judge struck down the NYS mask mandate. However, following a court hearing yesterday afternoon, a “stay” was issued on this decision, which means that the mask mandate will continue to be in effect statewide while court proceedings continue.
We know that our staff and families may have questions about this news and what it means for schools. At this time, there is no change to the health and safety protocols we have been following in recent months as it relates to masks. All staff, students and school visitors are still required to wear a mask or face covering while in our schools.
Our priority continues to be the health and safety of our school community. As this situation evolves, we will continue to update you. Thank you for your continued partnership.
Jan. 25: Mask Rule Still in Effect
The Cohoes City School District is aware of the recent Nassau County Supreme Court ruling pertaining to the mask mandate. The State Education Department issued the following statement:
“The State Education Department understands that Nassau County Supreme Court has ruled that the Department of Health exceeded its authority in enacting the mask regulation, 10 NYCRR 2.60, in Demetriou et al. v. New York State Dep’t of Health et al. This regulation is the subject of conflicting decisions, insofar as Albany County Supreme Court recently upheld the regulation in Massapequa UFSD et al. v. Hochul, et al.
It is SED’s understanding that the Department of Health will appeal the Nassau County Supreme Court decision, which will result in an automatic stay that will unambiguously restore the mask rule until such time as an appellate court issues a further ruling. Therefore, schools must continue to follow the mask rule.”
Since the statement, the Governor and NYS State DOH have filed a Notice of Appeal.
Therefore, at this time there are no changes to the mask protocols we have been following. Students, staff members, and event visitors are required to wear masks at school. We will continue to update you on any new information.