Oklahoma Governor Signs Law Prohibiting Enforcement of WHO Mandates
Oklahoma City, OK (March 14, 2023)
– Governor Kevin Stitt has signed HB 1568 into law, which prohibits the enforcement of any World Health Organization (WHO) mandates or recommendations in the state of Oklahoma. The new law states that “no agency or official of the state shall enforce, comply with, or assist in the enforcement of any rule, regulation, recommendation, or executive order of the World Health Organization.” According to supporters of the law, the WHO has overstepped its authority and is attempting to impose its will on sovereign states like Oklahoma. They argue that the organization’s mandates infringe on individual liberty and the rights of state governments. “This law sends a clear message that Oklahoma will not tolerate the WHO’s attempts to dictate our public health policies,” said Governor Stitt. “We will continue to fight for the rights of our citizens and the sovereignty of our state.” Opponents of the law argue that it could have negative consequences for public health. They point to the WHO’s role in coordinating global efforts to combat infectious diseases, such as the coronavirus pandemic. “This law is shortsighted and could put the health of Oklahomans at risk,” said Dr. David Brown, president of the Oklahoma State Medical Association. “We should be working with the WHO, not isolating ourselves from it.” The law has sparked controversy and will likely face legal challenges. The WHO has not yet commented on the new law.
Oklahoma Enacts Law Barring Enforcement of WHO Mandates
Oklahoma has become the latest state to defy international health regulations by enacting legislation prohibiting the enforcement of World Health Organization (WHO) mandates within its borders. Signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt, the new law asserts that Oklahoma has sole authority over its public health policies. The law states that no state agency, political subdivision, or other entity may “take any action to enforce or implement any mandate, directive, or recommendation issued by the World Health Organization or its affiliates.” This includes mandates related to vaccination, quarantine, and other public health measures. Oklahoma legislators cite concerns over the WHO’s alleged overreach and infringement on state sovereignty. They argue that the organization’s recommendations often lack scientific consensus and that states should have the autonomy to determine their own health policies. Opponents of the law, including public health experts and the Oklahoma State Medical Association, warn that it could undermine public health efforts and leave the state vulnerable to outbreaks of infectious diseases. They argue that the WHO provides valuable guidance based on global scientific expertise and that state policies should align with these recommendations. The law has drawn a mixed reaction from Oklahoma residents. Some support the state’s defiance of the WHO, seeing it as a protection of individual freedoms. Others express concern about the potential consequences for public health and international cooperation. Oklahoma’s law is part of a growing trend of state-level resistance to federal and international health mandates. Similar legislation has been enacted or is pending in several other states, including Arizona, Missouri, and Texas.
