No Federal Vaccine Mandates for Schools

Many Americans are grappling with the anxiety caused by the threat of federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates, mask mandates, and quarantine requirements. That's especially true for parents, teachers, and other education personnel. In an effort to bring their concerns to President Biden, I led a letter, which was co-signed by my fellow Arkansas Representatives, strongly opposing any federal vaccine mandate for schools. In early September, President Biden illustrated by his actions that he embraces an overreaching federal government when he announced a series of COVID-19 vaccine mandates covering federal workers, contractors, health care workers, and all businesses with over 100 employees. The Biden Administration has demonstrated that it supports federal vaccine mandates without regard for the liberties of individuals and businesses, and is seemingly oblivious to how those mandates might negatively affect people's livelihoods. This is blatant federal overreach. As the Administration considers implementing a similar mandate on schools, I wanted to ensure Arkansas' voice was heard on the issue.

To be clear, I trust the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Operation Warp Speed, but I also believe in the freedom of individuals to choose the health care that is right for them and their families. Vaccine mandates for children have always been the responsibility of state and local governments, because our citizens can better hold local governments responsible for their actions. Parents, teachers, school boards, and respected local health leaders should be working together to assess the need for vaccines in schools. The federal government simply doesn't need to be involved.

Arkansas' schools have led in the safe reopening of schools while providing quality education and preserving patient privacy, parental rights, and individual liberty. President Biden should highlight Arkansas' schools as a model to the nation for how best to navigate this complex issue. Arkansas is quite capable of doing what is best for our communities for the duration of this pandemic. That same trust should extend to any discussion of a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. I will always fight for individual liberty in all aspects of life and ensure Arkansans are heard on the issues we care about most.