HALIFAX COUNTY, Va. – Students in Halifax and Franklin Counties will be required to wear masks when the new school year begins.

Masks will be required for students, staff and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, when the new school year starts August 30 in Halifax County.

Members of the Halifax County School Board voted of the mask policy Monday but pledged to revisit the mask mandate in 30 days or less. The vote to adopt the policy was 6-2.

Meanwhile, the Franklin County School Board has voted unanimously to require masks for students in grades K-12.

Parents addressed the board Monday night, with some asking that school leaders follow CDC guidelines recommending — but not requiring — masks. Others urged the board to issue the restrictions, citing health concerns.

Those with religious or health issues may be exempt from the mask requirement.

Franklin County schools are set to open later this week.

Patrick County is recommending that students wear masks but will not make it a requirement for attendance.