Washington, D.C.- Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Committee Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) released the following statement:
“The science is clear. It’s time for schools to reopen-especially for the mental wellness of our children. After I urged CDC Director Walensky this week to act, I’m relieved the CDC is finally updating its guidance with the safe recommendation of three feet for social distancing.
“I know I speak for millions of moms when I say there can’t be any more excuses or reasons to keep schools closed. This is a human rights issue for a hopeful and bright future for our kids."
Note: On Wednesday during an Energy and Commerce Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee hearing, Leader Rodgers urged Centers of Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky to “act now" to reopen schools and change the guidance to three feet.
Leader Rodgers said: “Dr. Walensky, to address the mental health crisis caused by school closures, we need swift action from the CDC… you do NOT need to wait for more studies. Yes or no-if people are masked, is it safe and more practical for schools to reopen with three feet of distance?"
When CDC Director Walensky said the CDC was looking to update the guidance, Leader Rodgers said: “I would urge you to act and act now. We don’t need to wait for additional studies. I am a mom of three school-aged kids. I’m speaking for millions of moms across this country, who are extremely concerned about the mental health of our children."
