Proposal to nullify local mask mandates advances

Lawmakers advanced a bill last week that would essentially nullify local health measures like mask mandates and prohibit local governments and health officials from adopting similar requirements in the future.

In a preliminary vote following an approximately 30-minute House floor debate, lawmakers voted in favor of House Bill 257, 66-34. The measure would prohibit local governments or health officials from compelling businesses, via health mandates, to turn away customers who don't comply with health requirements. It would also prevent them from taking any enforcement action against businesses...