CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE – Today, the House Education Committee held a hearing and a vote on a non-germane amendment to prohibit COVID-19 vaccine requirements. Deputy Ranking Democrat on the House Education Committee, Rep. David Luneau (D-Hopkinton) released the following statement:
“In a last ditch attempt to deny science and promote conspiracy theories, House Republicans disrespected the legislative process today by amending an unrelated education bill with language undermining public health and safety during a pandemic.
Republican leadership hand-picked the vote, permanently removing from the committee the one Republican member who may oppose this absurd proposal. This political stunt should be a concern to everyone. The House Speaker’s decision to gerrymander the proceeding is a disgrace.
Today, we heard extreme testimony from both the public and our colleagues repeating disinformation on the COVID vaccine. Let’s be clear, the COVID vaccine is safe and effective. It is the right of companies, schools, and organizations to protect their patrons and employees from a virus that has taken the lives of over 750,000 Americans. Denying private businesses and organizations this right is not the New Hampshire way.”