12 California legislators won’t say if they’ve been vaccinated. Should they be forced to?
LA TimesNot all California legislators have disclosed whether they’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19. “I’m not going to, because it’s my choice,” said state Sen. Brian Dahle, when asked Monday about why he refused to disclose whether he’s vaccinated against COVID-19. At least three other legislators who also became infected with COVID-19 last year told The Times they have received a vaccination: Assembly members Tom Lackey and Patrick O’Donnell and state Sen. Josh Newman. But she has urged the Legislature to remain in session in Sacramento this year after last year’s public health shutdowns, participating in work that typically includes long hours in the state Capitol’s tight quarters. A similar response came from Smith, whose spokesperson said in an email that staffers “do not disclose Assemblyman Smith’s personal health with members of the media or constituents.” In the 40-member state Senate, all but five lawmakers said they are fully vaccinated, with inoculations disclosed by both Democrats and Republicans.