Today’s update discusses:

• Many schools now choosing virtual learning as an option
• Statewide mask mandate taking effect
• Eviction and foreclosure moratoriums being extended
• Landlords filing suit against Governor

EDUCATION

• Like many states, Indiana schools are struggling with the decision of whether to resume in-person learning this fall. A sampling of decisions made recently:
  • Washington Township announced that all learning will be virtual until further notice.
  • Similarly, Beech Grove began the school year virtually.
  • Students in Brownsburg and Greenfield, however, began in-person learning today with safety measures in place.
  • In accordance with a new public health order being issued, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett issued revised school guidelines that include:
    • Middle and high schools with less than 400 students being allowed to resume in-person learning if social distancing can be achieved, while schools with greater than 400 students must be operated virtually or in a hybrid model.
    • K-5 schools resuming in-person classes.
    • Masks being required by students in grades 3 and above and by children aged 3 and above when they are indoors and not socially distanced.
    • Schools conducting in-person learning or a hybrid model being required to implement social distancing procedures.
  • Final guidelines for in-class learning, student sports, and other student activities for Marion County schools are expected in the upcoming weeks.

EXECUTIVE ACTIONS

• As previously reported, Governor Holcomb implemented a statewide mask mandate that went into effect on Monday. The announcement came as cases in the state continue to rise. The mandate is required for anyone over the age of eight who is in indoor public spaces or outdoors and unable to social distance. According to the governor, those who fail to adhere to the mandate could face a Class B misdemeanor.
• The Governor has extended the state’s eviction moratorium through August 14. The Executive Order states that a rental tenant cannot be evicted for nonpayment of rent. It also extends the prohibition on foreclosures. This Executive Order comes as the state continues to be in stage 4.5 of the reopening plan.

HEALTH

• Governor Holcomb has been reluctant to enforce more aggressive guidelines despite a continuous rise in COVID-19 cases in the state. He has issued a statewide mask mandate and continues to encourage social distancing, but he is leaving it up to local officials to decide whether to take more aggressive actions, such as closing bars and restaurants. State officials have also declined to issue statewide action on how or when schools should reopen.

JUDICIAL ACTIONS

• Three Indiana landlords have brought suit in the Southern District of Indiana against Governor Holcomb and state officials for the extension of the moratorium on rental evictions. According to the lawsuit, the landlords claim that Governor Holcomb has exceeded his authority and is violating the state and U.S. Constitutions. The complaint asks for declaratory and injunctive relief as well as damages and attorney’s fees.