Masks Now Required On Lower Merion School Buses

LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — The Lower Merion School District recently announced it will be requiring students to wear masks while on its school buses.

The new policy went into effect Thursday.

Officials made the decision based on clarified language from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which says "the CDC requires face coverings, regardless of vaccination status, when on public transportation - this includes on school buses operated by public and private school systems."

The language states drivers do not need to wear masks if they are the only person aboard the bus.

According to the district, a face mask means a covering of the nose and mouth that is secured to the head with ties, straps or loops over the ears. Masks can be made with a variety of synthetic or natural fabrics, including cotton, silk or linen. They can be factory made, sewn by hand, or improvised by household items including but not limited to scarves, bandanas, t-shirts, sweat shirts, or towels.

Valved face masks are not permitted on buses.