December 17, 2021

Reps. Kennedy & Ferraro join call for public hearing on Governor’s digital vaccine passport

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Reps. Kennedy & Ferraro join call for public hearing on Governor’s digital vaccine passport

HARTFORD—State Reps. Kathy Kennedy (R-119) and Charles Ferraro (R-117) joined House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora on Tuesday calling for a public hearing on Governor Lamont’s plan to implement a digital vaccine passport system.

House Republicans lawmakers want to hold Governor Lamont to his word when he said earlier this year that he wanted to work with the legislative branch on Covid-related matters affecting the state.

In recent days, the governor has discussed developing, testing and implementing a platform for residents to provide digital proof of their vaccination status. Several states have adopted some version of the idea, including New York back in March. Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker has been working to establish a QR code system for vaccine requirements.

“As a representative for the people, I believe the public should weigh-in on the issues that will affect their daily life. Hearing from the public is never a bad idea and sometimes reveals real-life problems and challenges with the proposed legislation,” said Rep. Kennedy. “With state residents already struggling with higher prices due to inflation and supply chain issues of key goods and services, we don’t want to create an unnecessary barrier for people.”

“It is important for the public to weigh in on all major executive orders or legislation before such things become law,” said Rep. Ferraro. “The House of Representatives is often referred to as ‘People’s House’ for good reason. Each House district is represented by approximately 25,000 constituents making the House the legislative body that is closest to the people. The thought of passing such mandates on the residents of CT without allowing them to weigh in flies in the face of ‘of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Both Ferraro and Kennedy agree with House Republican Vincent Candelora that this should be a moment where Democrats serving in the General Assembly join us in demanding more from the governor.