I commend The Day for elaborating on state Rep. Mike France’s opposition to researching the impact of the religious exemption on the risk of a measles outbreak. According to France there is no health crisis so there is no need to do anything.

Apparently, he wants to wait until there is an outbreak and several children get sick or worse, a few die. Then, and only then, should we act. He accuses his colleagues, who want to be proactive, of having a political agenda. Is keeping kids safe now a bad thing? 

Here are the facts: Measles is a dangerous disease. There is a vaccine that can prevent measles. Some people have a religious opposition to the vaccine. Many more people are using the religious exemption as a loophole to avoid having to vaccinate their children. This situation potentially puts children at risk. 

The legislature should have a full and open debate including parents, religious representatives, medical personnel and the Public Health commissioner. France and his four like-minded colleagues should participate in the discussion instead of trying to stonewall it. Perhaps they are the ones with a political agenda.

Doug Davies

Ledyard