Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) unveiled a new legislative proposal on Tuesday known as the Freedom to Breathe Act. This legislation aims to prevent the federal government, including President Joe Biden and federal agencies, from issuing nationwide mandates for face masks once again.
The Act specifically targets face mask requirements on public transit passengers and students in schools. Should the bill be successfully passed and signed into law, its provisions would remain in effect until December 31, 2024.
In explaining the rationale behind the proposed legislation, Vance emphasized the past experience with mask mandates in the country. He argued that such mandates proved ineffective in controlling the spread of respiratory viruses, infringed upon individuals’ fundamental bodily freedoms, and contributed to societal divisions.