House Bill 429 Summary

• Only the governor, state board of education, school district boards of trustees, or public charter school boards may close schools or limit school programs to prevent the spread of infectious disease.

• Only these same entities may require measures in schools to prevent the spread of contagious or infectious disease.

• School decisions to remain open or reopen, or to require or not require disease prevention measures, do not violate orders from the department of health and welfare, district boards of health, or city governments.

• Individuals age 18 and older, and parents or guardians of minors, may exempt themselves or their children from mask-wearing, plexiglass barriers, or similar medical measures by submitting a signed statement citing medical, religious, or personal belief reasons.

• Schools cannot limit participation of exempted individuals in school activities or programs based on their exemption status.