Order gives Oklahoma hospitals flexibility for COVID-19 care

(AP) Oklahoma’s health commissioner says an emergency rule approved by Gov. Kevin Stitt will allow Oklahoma hospitals to expand areas for treating COVID-19 patients. Dr. Lance Frye said Friday the rule allows the use of areas such as conference rooms for patient rooms, but is not an emergency order that would allow schools to issue mask mandates. Oklahoma City school Superintendent Sean McDaniel said earlier Friday that the district will require students and staff to wear masks starting next week, but with an opt-out provision for religious, medical or approved personal objection reasons. The district will also pay a $1,000 stiped to school employees with proof of being fully vaccinated by Nov. 15.