The article discusses the rising influence of the anti-science “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement in Mississippi, led by Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Kennedy. An AP investigation highlights that over 420 anti-science bills targeting public health protections, such as vaccinations and water fluoridation, have been introduced nationwide, with Mississippi among the states seeing similar proposals. Legislative attempts include giving rights to individuals who refuse medical interventions and promoting unpasteurized milk sales.
Though none of these bills have passed yet, the upcoming legislative session may see even more aggressive anti-science proposals, including potentially eliminating childhood vaccine mandates. Dr. Daniel Edney, Mississippi’s health officer, expresses his commitment to science-based health policies, stating that the health department aims to protect communities through vaccination. However, the support for anti-science measures raises concerns about the future direction of health policy in the state.
