JUNEAU

FILE - In this Jan. 27, 2021 file photo, Alaska state Sen. Lora Reinbold, an Eagle River Republican, holds a copy of the Alaska Constitution during a committee hearing in Juneau, Alaska. Alaska Airlines has banned the Alaska state senator for refusing to follow mask requirements. Last week Reinbold was recorded in Juneau International Airport arguing with Alaska Airlines staff about mask policies. A video posted to social media appears to show airline staff telling Reinbold her mask must cover her nose and mouth. Reinbold has been a vocal opponent to COVID-19 mitigation measures and has repeatedly objected to Alaska Airlines' mask policy, which was enacted before the federal government's mandate this year. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

Alaska state senator says airline ban is political

An Alaskan state senator was recently banned from Alaska Airlines for allegedly failing to comply with their mask policy, which will cause her to miss votes at the State Capitol. Due to the ban, which reportedly went into effect in April, Sen. Lora Reinbold (R) has asked to be excused from votes starting Sept. 11 through Jan. 15 since she can’t fly into Juneau.