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FSU COVID-19 Rule Breakers Now Subject To Suspensions

Florida State University has placed signs across campus reminding students to wear their masks. But some students aren't following that rule.
Robbie Gaffney
/
WFSU-FM
Florida State University has placed signs across campus reminding students to wear their masks. But some students aren't following that rule.

Thrasher sent a statement via email to students today. In it, he thanks those who have been wearing face coverings and practicing social distancing. But he also says students who ignore COVID-19 safety guidelines are putting everyone at risk.

"The choices you make don’t just impact you. They affect your friends, families, professors, FSU staff, and the Tallahassee community at large, as well as our ability to hold in-person classes and future events and provide campus services," Thrasher says.

Students will be suspended for at least a semester if they throw parties, attend large gatherings, or test positive for COVID-19 and don't quarantine.

"I expect you to respond as true Seminoles so that, through shared sacrifice and by working together, we can remain unconquered by the COVID-19 pandemic and keep our campus safe," Thrasher says.

His comments come after videos and photos of maskless students partying have been posted on social media. It also comes in the wake of blistering criticism by local officials like County Commissioner Mary Ann Lindley following the school's first football game where students were seen maskless and ignoring social distancing rules.

"Our entire community is at risk because of the really thoughtless, selfish behavior on the part of those college kids," Lindley says.

FSU says some 45 students have been investigated for breaking the rules. It's increasing police patrols around Greek houses. Thrasher says he plans to issue more rules regarding football game attendance.

Copyright 2020 WFSU

Robbie Gaffney is a recent graduate from Florida State University with degrees in Digital Media Production and Creative Writing. Before working at WFSU, they recorded FSU’s basketball and baseball games for Seminole Productions as well as interned for the PBS Station in Largo, Florida. Robbie loves playing video games such as Shadow of the Colossus, Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask, and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles. Their other hobbies include sleeping and watching anime.