Vestavia Lawmaker Seeks To Limit County Health Director's Power

MONTGOMERY, AL — In the year since Alabama reported its first case of COVID-19, the pandemic has caused political division worldwide, as many people look at mask mandates and social distancing protocols as government overreach. This has been especially evident in Alabama, and state lawmakers are considering a bill that would strip Jefferson County's health director of some of his power.

Rep. David Wheeler (R- Vestavia Hills) introduced a bill in the legislature this week that would force Dr. Mark Wilson, director of the Jefferson County Department of Health, to consult an appointed committee before issuing any emergency health orders.

Wheeler's bill would install a local advisory board that would have up to ten days to approve any order coming from the health department, a process Wilson says would be potentially harmful in emergency situations.

"I think we all need to hit the pause button and think about things more carefully rather than rushing to change things right in the middle of this pandemic," Wilson said in an ABC 33/40 interview.

Supporters of the bill say businesses and schools should have a say in any orders that affect their operations. Wheeler said he has heard numerous complaints from constituents who feel Wilson's emergency orders, including mask mandates and business closures represent government overreach.

Although the JCDH opposes the bills, Wheeler said he thinks the bill has enough support to pass. The bill will be in committee Wednesday.