Indiana House Bill HCR0003

Indiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/16/21

Caption

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION terminating the public health emergency first declared on March 6, 2020, in Executive Order 20-02.

Impact

The passing of HCR0003 will officially end the state of emergency provisions and the associated executive orders that granted the governor enhanced powers to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. This termination is significant as it removes the legal basis for various state actions and policies that were temporarily instituted for public health reasons. Consequently, state agency actions initiated under the authority of the declared emergency will also be rescinded, reflecting a notable shift in governmental oversight regarding public health matters.

Summary

HCR0003 is a Concurrent Resolution aimed at terminating the public health emergency originally declared on March 6, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution reflects the Indiana General Assembly's belief that residents, or 'Hoosiers,' are now capable of protecting their own health and safety without the need for continued emergency measures. The continuous renewal of the emergency has been characterized by several executive orders issued by Governor Eric Holcomb, extending the state of disaster emergency multiple times over a span of approximately two years. This indicates a prolonged period during which various restrictions and actions were implemented by the state in response to the pandemic.

Contention

While the resolution is framed as a necessary step toward restoring normalcy and recognizing the self-sufficiency of residents, it is likely to provoke discussions about the timing and implications of terminating such emergency powers. Opponents might argue that the resolution undermines necessary public health measures that could still be relevant, given the ongoing nature of the pandemic and its variants. Moreover, the debate may focus on the balance between individual responsibility and government intervention in protecting public health, especially in response to future health emergencies.