Columbia Standard

The city of Columbia has recently announced its plan to mandate mask usage in several schools after declaring a state of emergency, according to The Post and Courier.

Mayor Steve Benjamin delivered the announcement Aug. 4 — two weeks before classes are set to begin — ordering that 43 public and private elementary and middle schools have students and staff wear masks due to rising COVID-19 case numbers across the nation.

“This isn’t a political issue, this is a public health issue. If we can't rally around the central idea to protect our children," Benjamin tweeted. "I'm not sure what that says about us as a society. I’m pleased @CityofColumbia Council has ratified this emergency ordinance.”

The mandate applies to all employees, teachers, and visitors at public and private elementary and middle schools, however, it does not apply to high schools.

The city is the first local government in South Carolina to implement policies involving requirements for schools, while other towns; others counties, such as Charleston County, currently only require facial coverings in publicly run buildings.

The mandate, which was approved by the Columbia City Council during a special meeting on Aug. 5, would fine schools $100 for every teacher or staff member who violated the order.