On Feb. 18, 2021, the state Education Department issued a revised memo regarding in-school COVID-19 testing for students that made it clear that local health departments have the authority to require parents to consent to in-school testing.

In response, UFT President Michael Mulgrew issued the following statement: 

Random COVID testing has been an important part of our success in making schools the safest public spaces in New York City during in-person learning. Under the state Education Department's new amended guidelines, the city can maintain its aggressive testing regimen and help ensure the safety of students, staff and their families.