West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after state education officials voted to punish the Palm Beach County school district, and additional Florida counties, for implementing mask mandates for students. 

“The Florida State Board of Education has again put politics ahead of the health and safety of students, teachers, and school staff,” said Rep. Lois Frankel. “I am alarmed by the state’s decision to withhold funding from more school districts, including Palm Beach County, who are simply trying to keep our students safe. It’s time for the Governor to stop this dangerous game and let our school boards do their jobs.”

The State Board of Education voted to impose penalties equal to the monthly salaries of the local school board members. Palm Beach County will lose $27,284 per month as long as mandates are in place. The State also voted to withhold additional funding from Broward and Alachua school districts, equal to the amount received from federal grants. 

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