Texas Governor bans mask mandates from schools, government entities

The executive order would cover counties, cities, school districts, public health authorities, and government officials.

After June 4th, public schools will not be allowed to require mask wearing for teachers, students, parents, or other staff members while on campus.

On May 21, those that impose mask mandate that conflict with the executive order would face a fine of up to $1,000.

"Removing statewide mandates does not end personal responsibility," said Abbott after removing the statewide mask mandate back in March, which many called "reckless." "It's just that now state mandates are no longer needed."

"The Lone Star State continues to defeat COVID-19 through the use of widely-available vaccines, antibody therapeutic drugs, and safe practices utilized by Texans in our communities," Abbott wrote in a statement Tuesday. "Texans, not government, should decide their best health practices, which is why masks will not be mandated by public school districts or government entities. We can continue to mitigate COVID-19 while defending Texans' liberty to choose whether or not they mask up."

CDC officials announced last week that fully vaccinated people don't have to wear a mask in most situations, despite some officials insisting on still wearing a mask. About 32 percent of Texas is fully vaccinated, ABC 13 reports.

Noted exemptions from the executive order are state-supported living centers, government-owned or operated hospitals, Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities, Texas Juvenile Justice Department facilities, and county and municipal jails.