The upcoming Special Session of our Kansas Legislature is about politics, not good public health. The Republican-led leadership is flexing its muscle to stoke its supporters.
I urge you to read the Kansas City Star Editorial in our Gazette from last Saturday. It calls a special session “wasteful and expensive” and points out “vaccine exemption legislation would likely be illegal.”
It reminds readers that “vaccine requirements are fully constitutional.” citing a Supreme Court ruling from the early 1900 hundreds with the concern at that time being smallpox. It has been reaffirmed many times.
The editorial correctly points out vaccine requirements – “are meant to protect everyone-not just the person getting the shot.”
Quoting “The reason for these rules is obvious. They help reduce the spread of killer sicknesses. No reasonable person objects to them.” Finishing their thought with “ Somehow, though, when Covid-19 is involved, disease reporting and vaccine mandates turn into tyranny.”
Finally, a scary thought from the editorial:
“Lawmakers emboldened by the testimony of loopy conspiracy theorists, might push past COVID rules and restrict all public health measures in the state.”
“Already there are dark discussions in other states about lifting all vaccine requirements.”
Can you say Smallpox, Polio, Measles, and Mumps?
Please remember those responsible for calling the Special Session are demonstrating more interest in political gain than public health in Kansas and they are missing a key point “It’s not just about you. It’s also about us.”
I’m Steve Sauder hoping you will read the editorial.
