Former congressman and GOP gubernatorial candidate Jim Renacci on Thursday argued that Ohio House Bill 435 does not go far enough to protect individuals from COVID-19 mandates.
The legislation, which stalled in the House on Wednesday, would allow workers to receive religious, medical, or natural immunity exemptions for coronavirus vaccine mandates.
“HB 435 was another ineffective bill that would not have protected every Ohioan from unconstitutional vaccine mandates and requirements. Since Mike DeWine refuses to take a stand against any and all vaccine mandates, the legislature must keep working on a solution that safeguards personal freedom and choice,” Renacci said in a statement.
In the potential law, employees in intensive care units, children’s hospitals, or hired after the bill becomes law wouldn’t be exempt
As Renacci has continuously repeated, he encouraged Governor Mike DeWine to take action against mandates. However, instead, DeWine has encouraged mask mandates in some environments.
“DeWine should be taking cues from states like Texas and Florida that have signed executive orders and passed legislation to protect their citizens. As governor, I will veto any bill that jeopardizes Ohioans ability to make their own choices and do what is best for their families without government intrusion. Mike DeWine and the legislature will not protect your freedoms. I will,” Renacci continued.
Previously, the legislature passed House Bill 244, banning public schools and colleges from requiring vaccines that have not been fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“Do not let Mike DeWine get away with his lies. HB 244, which goes into effect today, DOES NOT ban vaccine mandates in schools. Like a slimy politician, DeWine signed a bill with buried language that states public schools and colleges cannot require anyone to get a vaccine that has not been fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration. That means the Pfizer vaccine—which has been approved for individuals 16 and up—can still be mandated in our schools and colleges, and forced upon our children,” Renacci said at the time
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Star News Network. Follow Cooper on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
