Fasano Statement on Public Health Committee Advancing Amended Bill on Religious Exemption for Child Vaccinations

Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano (R-North Haven) released the following statement in response to the Public Health Committee’s actions and votes today to amend and advance a proposed bill to eliminate the religious exemption for child vaccinations.

“The Democrat leadership of the Public Health Committee ignored over 20 hours of public testimony and the voices of over 5,000 citizens to rush a bill without giving the advocates the courtesy of reviewing last second changes. Instead of listening to those voices, in just over one business day and without any further discussion the Democrat leaders of the Public Health Committee rushed to vote on this bill. To make matters worse, they adopted a last-minute amendment without giving anyone in the public the ability to review the language. When we still have a month left to continue committee work on the legislation why rush? If there’s going to be an amendment, why not allow for transparency and discussion of that proposal? Why force this through today? I have grave concerns when we ask people to show up and share their perspective and leaders simply ignore them. This is the people’s house, and they have spoken loud and clear. The process today disrespects those voices.”