ASU requires masks; GOP lawmakers slam K-12 schools that do

By BOB CHRISTIE, TERRY TANG AND PAUL DAVENPORT
Associated Press

PHOENIX (AP) — More Arizona medical providers and education institutions announced new measures to stop COVID-19 from spreading as stark differences in Arizona’s approach to surging cases continue. Republican state lawmakers on Wednesday urged the governor to punish local school districts that require students to wear masks. But officials at Arizona State University and the University of Arizona both said they would now require masks in most indoor settings. And the Valleywise Health hospital system joined others in requiring most employees to be vaccinated. Arizona health officials reported 1,970 additional COVID-19 cases six additional deaths. Cases have risen dramatically from fewer than 500 a day two months ago.