Jaime Foster

As many of you know, I serve on the Public Health committee. As the 2021 session continues, I expect that there will be several lively and productive debates, especially surrounding important legislation.

The committee is currently considering removing the religious exemption from the vaccine program. As it currently stands, the exemption allows parents to opt  their children out of following the CDC advised vaccine schedule already required to attend public school. I have no problem with any of my colleagues who voice their dissent with this bill. Disagreement and compromise are all vital parts of the democratic process. However, we must be careful about how we frame this debate.

It is important to remember that the point of contention in this bill is the issue of religious freedom, not the scientific efficacy of vaccines themselves. Any language that challenges the efficacy of vaccines is dangerous, especially during a global pandemic.

There's a resounding amount of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of vaccines. There is also an overwhelming amount of public support and confidence in vaccines. If we undermine what is scientifically evident in our political discussions, we as legislators are doing a disservice to our community.

To watch my remarks about this issue during last Wednesday's Public Health Committee meeting, click the link below. To watch the entire meeting, click here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-7z2XrYa5I&feature=youtu.be