Ohio GOP gubernatorial candidate Jim Renacci on Tuesday backed a measure by Ohio lawmakers to block vaccine mandates in the state.
House Bill 218, which was approved by the House of Representatives earlier this month, would provide broad exemptions to any vaccine mandate.
For example, individuals would not have to receive the coronavirus because of religious beliefs, medical conditions, or if they have natural immunity. Schools and employers would also be prohibited from requiring a student or employee to receive a vaccine if it has not been granted full approval by the FDA.
According to Renacci, the legislation is needed for residents of the state.
“HB 218 needs to pass because history has taught us that we can’t trust Mike DeWine to fight for the rights of Ohioans and to resist lockdowns and mandates,” Renacci said in an emailed statement.
“Anthony Fauci is an unelected Washington bureaucrat and should never be dictating policy for the state of Ohio. Ohioans deserve a Governor who is committed to fighting for our economy and protecting our fundamental liberties. That’s precisely the type of Governor I will be each and every day.”
If enacted, the provisions established in the measure would last until September 30, 2025.
“Ohio medical decisions will not be held hostage by special interest groups,” said State Representative Al Cutrona (R-Canfield), a sponsor of the bill.
Previously, Renacci argued a similar bill to provide exemptions, House Bill 435, did not go far enough to protect Ohio workers. Ultimately, HB 435 stalled in the Ohio House.
“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.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Star News Network. Follow Cooper on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
