GOP Lawmakers Push For California Legislature To End COVID Emergency Declaration
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — California Republican lawmakers pushed for an end to the statewide emergency declaration again on Thursday, but their efforts fell short.
Assemblymembers James Gallagher and Kevin Kiley rallied Republicans ahead of legislation designed to move the Golden State out of COVID-19 restrictions associated with the state of emergency.
They cited other states in the country that have ended their emergency declarations and mandates. They said the legislature has the power to end the mask mandates, arguing that the rules have gone on too long and have done irreparable damage to businesses and our school children.
"We've had the most severe lockdowns, the most severe restrictions mandates throughout when it comes to business closures, school closures ... And yet there is no evidence this has done anyone any good," Kiley said in a press conference.
In a statement, Gov. Gavin Newsom's office called the GOP press conference political theater.
"Apparently, Asm. Kiley and Asm. Gallagher believe it would have been better to let Californians die and be turned away from care when hospitals reached capacity during the Omicron surge," part of the statement read.
On the California State Senate floor Thursday, Republicans pushed to have their resolution heard - but it never even made it to a vote.
