Face Covering Protocol

The face covering protocol contained herein, along with the protocol adopted by the South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR), serves as the framework under which South Dakota State University (SDSU) may adjust operations in a timely and tempered fashion to accommodate the changing COVID-19 landscape in its university community. This protocol is based on and subject to that of the SDBOR, as well as recommended guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and SD-DOH and changing conditions, and will change in accordance therewith. See also: SDSU COVID-19 Response

In its protocol, the SDBOR adopted a tiered system regarding face covering requirements, which is applicable at SDSU. SDSU has developed the following requirements for protocol implementation:

1. Effective Date
   1. This revised protocol for is effective at SDSU on May 10, 2021 and will remain in effect until further notice.
2. Face Covering Requirements
   1. As of May 10, 2021, the SDBOR Executive Director has exercised authority to move to Level 0 of the face covering protocol. Unless excepted below or through the EMT Chair, President, and/or SDBOR Executive Director, face coverings are optional on campus. SDSU continues to highly encourage face coverings in conformity with CDC and SD-DOH public health guidance.
3.  Enforcement
   1. SDSU has adopted the enforcement protocol included in the SDBOR protocol, which provides both informal and formal correction for employees, students and visitors as applicable.
4. ADA Accommodations
   1. SDSU provides accommodations for individuals in conformity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), its amendments and implementing regulations. Accommodations for students are made once the disability has been verified by Disability Services (605-688-4504). Reasonable accommodations for employees may be facilitated through the Office of Human Resources (605-688-4128).
5. Approved Exceptions to Level 0 optional face coverings
   1. Specific situations are approved for and necessitate the required use of face coverings, including but not limited to:
      1. In accordance with health protocols at the SDSU Student Health Clinic, related operations, and satellite locations;
      2. When required for teaching standard of practice instruction;
      3. When required by third party sites and vendors; or
      4. In accordance with governing rules, such as NCAA protocols for athletics or emergency responder protocols for UPD.
   2. Requests for consideration of exceptions to the Level 0 optional face covering protocol outside of ADA accommodations may be routed to the SDSU Emergency Management Team Chair for review and consideration.