The effort to ban mask mandates on public transportation is gaining momentum as the Association of Air Marshals joins the fight. The group has expressed its support for the "Freedom to Breathe Act," introduced by GOP Sen. J.D. Vance, which seeks to prohibit masking requirements in public transportation. In a letter to Sen. Vance, the president of the Air Marshal Association stated that airline crews and transportation workers should not be compelled to enforce masking policies on behalf of the government. He further emphasized the need for a permanent ban on masking requirements, but proposed prohibiting such requirements until December 31, 2024 as a strong message. Despite initial opposition, Sen. Vance remains determined to pass the legislation through other means, with a House version of the bill already introduced by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Effort to Ban Mask Mandates on Public Transportation Gains Steam
Introduction
The push to ban mask mandates on public transportation has gained momentum recently, as another prominent supporter joins the fight. The Air Marshal Association has thrown its support behind a proposed bill called the 'Freedom to Breathe Act,' which aims to prevent the enforcement of masking policies by airline crews and transportation workers. This article will explore the details of the bill, the support it has garnered, and the implications it could have on public transportation.
Support from the Air Marshal Association
The Air Marshal Association, a prominent organization representing air marshals, has expressed its support for the 'Freedom to Breathe Act.' In a letter addressed to Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, the association's president, John Casaretti, applauded the legislation and emphasized the importance of allowing air crews and transportation workers to have a choice regarding masking policies. The association believes that mandating masks infringes on personal freedom and that the enforcement of such policies can lead to increased violence and attacks on crew members.
Letter from the Air Marshal Association
In the letter sent to Senator Vance, President Casaretti highlighted the association's support for a permanent ban on masking requirements in public transportation. However, he also acknowledged that a prohibition on masking requirements until December 31, 2024, could still send a clear message. The letter expressed the Air Marshal Association's willingness to assist in the passage of the legislation and offered its enthusiastic support.
Effort Blocked by Sen. Ed Markey
Despite gaining significant support, the 'Freedom to Breathe Act' was ultimately blocked by Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts. Senator Markey argued that health officials should have the freedom to make decisions regarding masking requirements in their communities. He emphasized the need to protect public health and enable local officials to assess the risks to their population.
Details of the 'Freedom to Breathe Act'
The 'Freedom to Breathe Act,' introduced by Senator Vance, aimed to prevent President Biden and federal agencies from implementing face mask requirements for public transit passengers or students in schools until December 31, 2024. The bill also aimed to prohibit federal spending from being used to propose face mask requirements or force Americans to wear face coverings. By blocking these mandates, the legislation aimed to protect individual liberties and reduce the government's involvement in personal health choices.
Vance’s Continued Push for Legislation
Despite the setback in Congress, Senator Vance's spokesperson has stated that he will continue to pursue opportunities to pass the legislation at the federal level. They remain committed to banning mask mandates and ensuring that individuals have the freedom to decide whether or not to wear masks. The spokesperson also highlighted that a House version of the bill has been introduced by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia.
House Version Introduced by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene
To further amplify efforts to ban mask mandates on public transportation, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene introduced a House version of the 'Freedom to Breathe Act'. This move seeks to gain support from both chambers of Congress, increasing the chances of the bill's passage. Representative Greene's involvement adds momentum to the cause and highlights the growing support against mask mandates.
Implications of the Bill On Public Transportation
If the 'Freedom to Breathe Act' were to become law, it would have significant implications for public transportation. The ban on mask mandates would allow passengers and transportation workers to choose whether or not to wear masks, removing the requirement enforced by the government. This change could impact the public's perception of the safety of public transportation and potentially lead to diverse mask-wearing behaviors among passengers.
Comments from Vance’s Spokesperson
In response to the bill's blockage and in anticipation of its reintroduction, Senator Vance's spokesperson affirmed his commitment to pursuing every opportunity to ban mask mandates at the federal level. They expressed disappointment with Senate Democrats' defense of mask mandates and vowed to continue their efforts to protect individual freedoms.
Conclusion
The effort to ban mask mandates on public transportation has gained steam with the support of the Air Marshal Association and other lawmakers. Despite being blocked initially, Senator Vance and Representative Greene remain determined to push for the passage of the 'Freedom to Breathe Act.' The implications of this bill, if it were to become law, could have a significant impact on mask-wearing policies and individual freedoms in public transportation. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this issue will develop in the future.
