Text of Petition from ChildrensHealthDefense.org:
Dear New York State Bar Association,
Please reconsider the Health Law Task Force Report on COVID-19 that recklessly recommends that all New York State residents must receive mandatory vaccination “when the efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine has been confirmed.” This recommendation would violate citizens’ fundamental rights to bodily integrity, free exercise of religion, parental rights, informed consent, the right to refuse unwanted medical treatment and other constitutional rights. Such a mandate would sow distrust and meet overwhelming resistance.
Much has changed in science and law since 1905 when the Supreme Court upheld Massachusetts’s mandate against an epidemic “that imperiled an entire population.” The fatality rate from smallpox was 30%; COVID-19’s is closer to .2%. The Task Force misreads the law, imagining a blank check for states to impose mandates under police powers. But in fact states must meet criteria of necessity, proportionality, harm avoidance and non-discrimination. Precedents require courts to prevent arbitrary and oppressive mandates like the one the Task Force proposes.
NYSBA should adopt a more sensible and cautious approach at its general June 13 meeting. Consent, not coercion, is the only way to ensure public health.
Sincerely,
” Your Signature “
Sign the petition HERE
