06/23/2021

OSMA Members Speak Out: Anti-Vaccine HB 248 Opponent Hearings

Last week, OSMA put out an advocacy update and a reminder call for written testimonies for this week’s opposition hearing against House Bill 248, legislation that would discourage vaccinations and decrease vaccination rates across the state.

OSMA members and many others representing Ohio’s medical and business communities spoke out in opponent hearings in the House Health Committee on Tuesday, June 15 and Tuesday, June 22.

Thank you to all who submitted written testimony in response to our urgent call to action. In total, between the two hearings, over 300 people submitted testimonies against HB 248. Your incredible support helped us to dispel misinformation and myths about vaccines and to provide members of the committee with a strong display of concern about the potential impact of this bill.

This is a powerful reminder of what our collective power can accomplish, and OSMA is appreciative of your contributions to our advocacy efforts, and to our mission of bringing physicians together for a healthier Ohio.

The committee scheduled the bill for a possible vote this Tuesday, but ultimately did not pursue voting as a result of our advocacy. OSMA will keep you updated on the latest news regarding this and other legislative proposals pertaining to health care issues. Stay tuned for updates on whether this bill is scheduled for further hearings.