Florida school mask controversy continues as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations surge

As COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations surge in Florida, a debate is raging over requiring masks in schools.

An emergency rule in Florida will allow parents to use vouchers to transfer children out of public schools that require masks, but not everyone agrees with the move. Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is threatening to withhold funding from districts that require masks. "The decision to try to withdraw funds or withhold funds from school districts who are trying to make decisions in the best interest of public safety is really disturbing to me," said Sarah Leonardi, a school board member in Broward County, where opponents of masks have been vocal.