Whether you are pro- or anti-masks, you should consider the consequences of mask mandates.

Civil liberties advocates say wearing masks should be a personal choice. They want parents and children to choose.

Masking critics say science has failed to show evidence that masks prevent covid infection.

Some educators and parents are concerned that forcing children to wear masks for hours in classes hampers their ability to learn and think analytically.

School District 5 in Chapin and Irmo has refused to enforce a Richland County mask mandate for their schools in Lexington and Richland counties.

The Lexington County Chronicle has asked the other 4 county school districts for their positions on masks and other covid prevention steps.

An equally large question is the legality of mask mandates.

Do they violate state law?

SC Attorney General Alan Wilson contends they do.

He wants the state Supreme Court to declare mask mandates by cities, towns, counties and school boards are illegal.

Wilson’s lawsuit does not question whether masks are effective but is based on the importance of following state law.

Wilson said he encourages everyone to wear masks when appropriate and encourages everyone who can to get the covid vaccination.

State lawmakers passed a provision that prohibits schools or school districts that receive state money from requiring masks.

“The rule of law must prevail.” Wilson said.

“This Court has observed that ‘[w]ithout a legislature and the exercise of the power to appropriate funds . . . anarchy and chaos would pervade society.”

We are not arguing that covid is not a serious disease. It has killed thousands in our country and more around the world.

But is politics – not science – influencing these mandates?

We are interested in your thoughts about mask mandates and the power of government to control our behavior.

To comment please email JerryBellune@yahoo.com

What do you think of mask mandates and government’s power to control behavior?