Friends and neighbors,
This week, Democrats advanced SF 3439, a bill that would eliminate the "conscientiously held beliefs" exemption for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
I've heard from parents in our district who are deeply concerned about this, and I share those concerns. Several mothers and families delivered powerful testimony against this bill. One said her child (who has a seizure disorder) was denied a medical exemption, while another testified that her son's own doctors advised against any further vaccines but wouldn't sign a medical exemption because they feared professional repercussions. One of my Senate GOP colleagues on the committee, Senator Lieske, also shared his personal vaccine experience when he was, in my opinion, wrongly denied a medical exemption.
Parents are the ones best positioned to make healthcare decisions for their children. When there is a risk of medical injury, parents must have a choice. This bill takes that choice away. If it comes before me this year, I will defend our health and parental rights.
I filmed a short video with my thoughts on this bill. You can watch it here.
Thank you!
As always, thank you for staying engaged and informed. If you have questions, concerns, or just want to share your thoughts, please don't hesitate to reach out. My door is always open.
Sincerely,