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July 24, 2002

U.S. IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Many States Reject Bioterrorism Law"

USA Today (www.usatoday.com) (07/23/02) P. A1; Hall, Mimi

A model law developed for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that would give emergency powers to authorities in the event of a bioterrorism attack has been passed over by many states.  Under the model, authorities would have the right to enforce quarantines; vaccinate people; seize and destroy property without compensation; and ration medical supplies, food and fuel. Supporters of the proposal say such a law is needed because it would afford authorities with the guidance and the legal ability to make quick decisions in emergencies involving contagious or deadly pathogens.  Given the political climate and the threat that biological weapons pose to America right now, federal officials say the timing for the measure could not be better.  At present, 16 states and the District of Columbia have adopted all or parts of the model, while 22 states have either rejected or suspended action on the measure.

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