University System of Georgia now requiring masks inside campus buildings

The University System of Georgia says it will now require all faculty, staff, students and visitors to wear masks while inside campus buildings.

The new policy goes into effect July 15.

The system added that face masks would not be required in someone’s own dorm room, suite or office. The exception also applies outdoors where social distancing requirements can be met.

“Anyone not using a face covering when required will be asked to wear one or must leave the area. Repeated refusal to comply with the requirement may result in discipline through the applicable conduct code for faculty, staff or students,” USG said in a statement. “Reasonable accommodations may be made for those who are unable to wear a face covering for documented health reasons.”

[MORE: Latest COVID-19 information for metro Atlanta]

USG previously said it would “strongly encourage” those at public colleges and universities to wear face masks when classes resume in August.

Channel 2′s Tom Regan spoke last month with a long-term UGA professor who wanted masks to be required. She said she would not teach unmasked students.

“If there are asymptomatic students who aren’t wearing a mask, that risk is raised unnecessarily for the students sitting nearby. I think it’s important to do everything we can, everything that is without our power to mitigate the spread of the virus.” said UGA Professor of Psychology, Dr. Janet Frick.

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