Louisiana House Bill HR116

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/22
• Refer: 5/10/22
• Report Pass: 5/24/22
• Passed: 6/2/22

Caption

Expresses the concerns of the La. House of Representatives with respect to any potential agreement with the World Health Organization relating to global pandemic response for the U.S.

Impact

The resolution aims to protect the constitutional sovereignty of Louisiana and to ensure that individual rights are not infringed upon by any global health agreements. It highlights provisions to prohibit bio-surveillance and unauthorized data collection, allowing individuals the freedom to make personal health decisions. These stipulations reflect a pushback against any perceived overreach by international bodies in American health policy and underscore a commitment to state-directed health governance.

Summary

House Resolution 116 expresses the concerns of the Louisiana House of Representatives regarding potential agreements with the World Health Organization (WHO) related to global pandemic response for the United States. The resolution argues that any agreements should be subject to approval by the Louisiana Legislature or a majority vote of the state's citizens. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining state sovereignty and individual rights in health-related decisions, underscoring the delicate balance between global health collaboration and local autonomy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR116 is one of cautious protectionism. Supporters view it as a necessary safeguard against potential encroachments on personal freedoms and state rights. Conversely, critics might perceive this sentiment as isolationist, potentially hindering collaborative global efforts in managing public health crises. The debate channels broader concerns about governmental authority, individual freedoms, and how states navigate international agreements, especially in times of health emergencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention in HR116 include the amendment's implications on health governance and the control over pandemic response measures. The resolution argues that WHO amendments could undermine state sovereignty and give unilateral power to the organization's director general, which could conflict with local laws and rights. This brings into focus an ongoing discussion about the tension between global health governance and state autonomy, reinforcing the complexity of legislative responses to international health frameworks.