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News Roundup

House Passes Unmask Georgia Students Act

Your AM Rundown: Plus, the deadline for Fulton County residents to receive local property tax exemptions is approaching.

Students wearing masks in schools
Students walk down a hallway last year at Tussahaw Elementary School in McDonough, Ga. The Georgia House of Representatives passed a bill Friday that will give parents the ability to opt out of school mask restrictions. (Brynn Anderson/AP)

Top of the morning! 

Here is Your AM Rundown, with news updates in 400 words or less. Get caught up on headlines and other developments you might’ve missed. 

Here’s what to know for today:

  • Masks may no longer be mandated in Georgia public schools under state law. The Georgia House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 514, commonly known as the Unmask Georgia Students Act. The legislation would effectively keep school boards and staff from imposing any mask mandates without an opt-out choice for parents. The bill will now head to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk for final approval. 
  • Are you a DeKalb County voter? Keisha Smith, the new voter registration and elections executive director, wants to hear from you. Today and tomorrow, Smith will host virtual listening sessions to talk about redistricting and key priorities heading into the election cycle. Get more info here.
  • Delta Air Lines is asking government officials to end federal COVID-19 restrictions, which include wearing a mask while on the plane and in the airport. Delta CEO Ed Bastian stated that “current data and science show it’s time to move from mandates.”

ICYMI: The deadline for Fulton County homeowners to receive a discount on their city, county, and school property taxes is quickly approaching. Residents have until April 1 to apply for the 2022 homestead exemption. Applications can be submitted online.

Got tips, pitches, or other updates to include in Your AM Rundown? Hit us up at atltips@capitalbatl.org.