Thank you to The Sick Times team, especially my editors Betsy Ladyzhets and @mileswgriffis.bsky.social, and to everyone who spoke with me for this important story. Thanks for reading!

Mask blocs and other COVID justice organizations across the US West have been raising awareness about this overlap, making it clear that masks will continue to be vital forms of protection as the climate crisis intensifies.

Utah, California, and Texas – all states known for poor air quality – have recently proposed or considered mask bans, even when masks have been a vital tool to protect from air pollution since before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

From the toxic dust of the drying Great Salt Lake, to increased wildfires, chemical fires, allergens, and more, climate change is set to make air pollution worse, especially in the American West.

@longcovidadvoc.com @longcovidsupport.bsky.social @cleanairclub.bsky.social @togetherwemask.bsky.social @covidactionmap.bsky.social @thewhn.bsky.social @covidsafecampus.bsky.social @covidsafersf.bsky.social @maskblocla.bsky.social @covidsafecolorado.bsky.social @fanfavoritesd.bsky.social

Thank you! Is there a comprehensive list somewhere of good secure tools journalists (or anyone) can use?

Abbott asks who wants to make public comment. Several people raise their hands, including several wearing masks.

Abbott clarifies that the masking ban is no longer part of HB312. Says he is an attorney, and that there's a saying that if you're ahead, sometimes it's better not to say anything.

After Lisonbee introduces other items in HB312, committee asks questions.

Grant Miller, Dem Rep: "I've received more emails than I can ski on about the mask ban. The second sub that we're considering does not contain a mask ban, correct?"

Lisonbee: "That's correct."

Lisonbee claims that committee has removed mask ban language from HB312, but updated language has not been published on website. Unclear if a mask ban amendment could be included in a different bill.

le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/...