On September 30, 2021, the Court of Appeals for the Eighth District of Texas—El Paso, Texas—issued an Order holding that, for the time being, El Paso's mandate requiring masks in indoor spaces, including schools, is suspended.
The court said the city's mask mandate had to be lifted while it hears an appeal by the Texas Attorney General's Office of a lower court ruling upholding the mandate. As such, the mask mandate issued by Dr. Hector Ocaranza does not, at this time, extend to EPCC students or staff. Therefore, for now, there will be no mask mandate at any EPCC campus.
As always, the safety and well-being of our students and employees remains a priority. To the extent allowed by law, we will continue to follow CDC and local health guidance as we increase our on-site operations and in-person classes.
Please stay vigilant in practices that reduce the spread of COVID- 19 and other illnesses, including washing your hands and maintaining social distancing when possible. EPCC also strongly encourages you to wear a face mask while on campus.
If you are able, please get a COVID-19 vaccination which can protect you and others. EPCC is offering a free vaccination clinic at the Mission del Paso campus every Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for students, employees, and the general public. Schedule your appointment
by clicking here. Walk-ins are welcome.
We will provide more details and updates as they become available.