Team,
A few days ago, Arkansas State lawmakers attempted to pass a bill barring businesses in Arkansas from inquiring about individuals’ vaccination status.
S.B. 731 was the Arkansas State Legislature’s way of trying to get around President Biden’s announcement that businesses with 100+ employees will have to require vaccinations or weekly testing.
I’m extremely disappointed with the rhetoric used during the bill’s proposal:
I’m shocked and dismayed by Arkansas Republicans’ willingness to use the word of God to justify this dangerous rhetoric and legislation -- and party leaders such as State Senator Bob Ballinger and Sarah Huckabee Sanders are leading the charge.
When folks use the Bible to justify dangerous, life-threatening policy decisions, they turn religion into a wedge that divides us instead of a force that unites us.
As a physicist AND an ordained minister, for me, there’s never been a conflict between science and faith.
The Bible tells us, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians, 2:4). As Governor, the health and safety of every Arkansan would be my top priority -- and that means following the science.
Vaccines are safe, free, and have saved countless lives. Our state leaders should be encouraging citizens to get vaccinated for their own safety and for the safety of their communities, not spreading anti-vaccine rhetoric in the state capital.
Now more than ever we need leaders who value truth, science, and honesty -- and if I’m elected governor, that’s my promise to you. If you’re with me, sign this petition and show your support for science-based leadership:
In solidarity,
Chris Jones
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