SF1222

Purpose

This bill would require Minnesota school districts and charter schools to allow a parent to opt their child out of a face covering requirement. It aims to give parents a clear, no-questions-asked way to decline masking for their child when a mask policy is in place.

Main Provisions

• If a school district or charter school imposes a face covering requirement for students in school buildings or on school grounds, they must permit a parent to opt their child out.
• A parent can opt out by notifying the school board, the principal, or another administrator responsible for the school site.
• The district or school may not require the parent to state a reason for the opt-out or provide any evidence about the child’s health or education status.
• A student whose parent has opted out must not be disciplined or treated differently because of the opt-out.

How the Opt-Out Works (Process and Rights)

• Applicability: Applies to settings where a face covering is required in school buildings or on school grounds.
• Method: Opt-out is initiated through a direct notification to the appropriate school official (school board, principal, or designated administrator).
• Privacy and Non-Discrimination: No requirement to disclose health or education information; no punitive or unequal treatment for opting out.

Significance and Potential Impacts

• Shifts policy to emphasize parental control over masking decisions in schools.
• Removes barriers by eliminating the need for health or status explanations to opt out.
• Could affect school masking policies and how consistently mask requirements are enforced or communicated across districts and charter schools.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Codifies an explicit opt-out mechanism for face coverings within Minnesota Statutes (chapter 121A, section 121A.321 as referenced).
• Establishes uniform expectations for opt-out notification and protections against discipline or differential treatment for opting out.
• Reframes the relationship between school masking policies and parental choice, reducing potential friction around mask mandates.

Relevant Terms - face covering - opt out / opt-out - parent notification - school district - charter school - school board - principal - administrator / administrative control - health status - education status - discipline - non-discrimination - Minnesota Statutes chapter 121A - 121A.321 (FACE COVERING OPT OUT)