SE Valley Times

State Representative Nick Kupper has expressed his disapproval following Governor Katie Hobbs' veto of HB2012. The bill, sponsored by Kupper, aimed to prevent Arizona employers, government entities, and healthcare institutions from mandating the use of products authorized solely under the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

In response to the veto, Kupper said, "Governor Hobbs claims this bill is based on a ‘misunderstanding of federal law.’ But here’s the truth: I lived this issue personally, and I stood up in court to challenge the federal government’s attempt to force an EUA product on me. The judge in my case recognized what federal law clearly states—emergency use products must be optional. That’s not a misunderstanding. That’s the law."

Kupper further criticized Hobbs’ decision by saying, "Hobbs says she wants to protect public health, but she’s actively defending the ability of employers to force unapproved, untested, and potentially unsafe products on Arizonans. The FDA itself acknowledges that EUA products are not fully approved. This bill simply clarified that Arizonans should not be coerced into taking something the federal government hasn’t fully vetted."

He also argued that "What’s really happening here is the Governor is siding with corporations and government bureaucrats over individuals and their rights. My bill would not have banned the use of any product. It would not have stopped anyone from choosing to take an EUA product. It would have stopped mandates. Period."

Kupper emphasized that his proposal was intended to uphold informed consent and individual liberty principles. He concluded by stating, "This was a straightforward measure to reinforce the principle of informed consent and individual liberty. Governor Hobbs just told Arizonans she believes the state should step in to compel them to take products the FDA hasn’t approved. That’s unconscionable."

Nick Kupper represents Legislative District 25 in Arizona's House of Representatives and serves as Vice Chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee.

Information from this article can be found here.