First Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Governor Greg Abbott

Fourteen children, with disabilities, and their families have filed the first federal lawsuit against Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Mike Morath, the Texas Education Agency Commissioner. The 14 plaintiffs will remain anonymous due to their age, but they range in age from 7 to 11.

The lawsuit alleges that the state’s executive order, which prohibits school districts from enforcing mask mandates, puts children with disabilities at risk, is discriminatory, breaks the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, and Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act.

EverythingLubbock reports the lawsuit seeks a federal, temporary restraining order that would stop enforcement of the executive order and allow school districts and local governments to choose whether or not to require masks.

Governor Abbott was asked for a comment in response to the allegations in the lawsuit, but a spokesperson responded;

“Governor Abbott cares deeply about the health and safety of disabled students, as he does for all Texas students. Since his accident that left him paralyzed, the Governor has worked throughout his career to protect the rights of all those with disabilities in Texas.”

The Texas Education Agency was also asked for comments, but they refused.

This lawsuit comes days after Governor Abbott himself tested positive for coronavirus.