Mask mandates would no longer be allowed in Kansas under a bill the Legislature sent to the governor's desk Friday.
The state would bar any public officials — including state and local governments, schools and health officials — who are looking to protect the public in the event of a new COVID-19 spike or other public health emergency.
The Kansas House and Senate narrowly approved a bill early Friday morning, crafted by senators in response to safety measures enacted during the pandemic. In addition to banning mask mandates, the bill removes the Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary's power to have law enforcement carry out quarantine orders.
