Senator JD Vance of Ohio held a press conference to discuss Senate Republicans' plans to eliminate federal mask mandates. He expressed gratitude to the U.S. Air Marshal Association for backing his Freedom to Breathe Act.
"We introduced this legislation to stop the federal government from reimposing mask mandates in part because I see this gnawing hysteria start to creep back into the country," stated Senator Vance. He emphasized the need for leaders to accept COVID-19's presence and make calm, rational decisions without causing undue suffering.
Senator Thune highlighted concerns about past mask mandates, particularly for young children. "Kids as young as two years old were required to wear masks even when they were playing outside," he said. Thune criticized such policies and voiced hope that they would be permanently abolished.
Senator Barrasso focused on protecting individual rights through the legislation. "The last thing we need is another one size fits all approach from the federal government," he remarked, underscoring the bill's aim to safeguard freedoms and liberties.
Addressing educational impacts, Senator Schmitt noted declines in academic performance linked to previous mandates and lockdowns. "I appreciate the proactive approach we have here to make sure this kind of COVID tyranny never takes hold again," he added.
The U.S. Air Marshal Association endorsed Senator Vance’s proposal earlier in September. President John Casaretti praised the act, noting that masking requirements had led to increased violence on aircraft and physical attacks on air crews enforcing these policies.
"I’m proud have air marshals here today and their support for this legislation," said Senator Vance, citing how these mandates often lead to disputes among airline passengers without significant benefits.
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