STATEHOUSE (Nov. 29, 2021) – State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Mike Speedy (R-Indianapolis) announced today they are co-authoring legislation to help end the statewide public health emergency and protect Hoosier workers.
According to Behning, House Bill 1001 would allow Gov. Eric Holcomb's state public health emergency to expire by ensuring Indiana could continue receiving the same federal reimbursements for SNAP and Medicaid, and maintain the state's ability to hold voluntary community vaccination clinics. Holcomb recently announced that he will keep the state of emergency and the remaining, but limited, executive order in place until lawmakers take action in January.
Speedy said the legislation filed Monday at the Statehouse would also require businesses to accept medical and religious exemptions, if they require the COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment.
"It should always be up to an individual and their health-care provider to make medical decisions," Behning said. "Overreach by the federal government has backed hardworking Hoosiers into a corner, and now many are choosing between their jobs and medical freedom. I'm ready to address this issue head on with legislation that helps protect Indiana residents and their liberties."
"Our individual freedoms and liberties don't end when a pandemic happens," Speedy said. "Hoosiers should be able to continue making medical decisions that are in line with their deeply held religious beliefs and medical needs without fear of losing their livelihoods. Information is readily available from many trusted sources to empower each person to make the choice that's best for them and their family."
Local workers and business owners can continue reaching out to Behning at h91@iga.in.gov and Speedy at h90@iga.in.gov with questions and comments, or by calling 1-800-382-9841.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on HB 1001, which will be considered during the 2022 legislative session kicking off in January.
-30-
State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 91,
which includes portions of Hendricks and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Mike Speedy (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 90,
which includes portions of Marion County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
