Readers respond to last week’s Feedback Friday topic, which was:
Whose Authority Comes First? (Mask Mandates, etc.)
In the past several weeks, Anne Arundel County residents experienced a public power struggle between their County Council, the County Executive, and County Health Officer Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman. The debate is about a mandate—specifically the County Executive and Health Officer’s indoor mask mandate, enacted 12/31 and expiring one week later on 1/7. The County Council did not approve the extension of the mandate beyond that week. Immediately thereafter, Dr. Kalyanaraman issued a public safety order overriding the council and extending the mask mandate to 1/31, or whenever he decides to lift the order. This has residents wondering who exactly has the authority to issue or approve mandates? Is the elected body of officials that represent them OR appointed officials? And many constituents are also asking, “Should I really wear a mask indoors or not?”
Similar scenarios regarding mandates and who has the authority to issue them have played out similarly in jurisdictions state- and nation-wide.
Our question to you was:
What are your thoughts on this situation; and did you know that appointed officials can override elected officials’ authority?
Here’s what you said:
First of all, the responsibility of the public health sector is to give information that is both factual and based on proper data. The responsibility of the citizen is to assess the information as it pertains to the risk relating to them and their family. Those that are elected are responsible to the public and therefore should make decisions based on information they receive: Taking into account many factors such as population, current economics, etc. Coercing, which is what a mandate is on steroids, does not work if the people do not believe in what you are trying to do. Conflicting messages just leads to non-compliance or a sense that something is not factual.
Maria Museler, Annapolis
I did not know that an appointed official could override our elected officials. I do feel that this should be the case under any circumstance.
Melvin Kelly, Severn
First, I did not know appointed officials could override elected officials. Why bother with a vote if an appointed official is going to do what they want to do regardless of a vote outcome.
Second, I do not agree with the mask mandates. They have shown to have little effect, as most masks people wear do not protect against an airborne virus. Two years in, we are at a point where this virus is weakening, vaccines have proven to not prevent viral infection, and much of this has unfortunately been politicized. The human body is amazing and resilient (when healthy). Our focus needs to shift to the treatments available, real meaningful facts and how to become healthier individuals in this country.
Kathryn Benedick, Severna Park
Governor Hogan should order a statewide mask mandate, then there is no question over authority. However, he hasn't so I believe the authority should come from the chief medical official for the county.
Susan Miller, Bowie
I am happy that someone is taking responsibility for keeping us safe. I think it's even more appropriate for professional public health officials to make that decision than elected officials since all too often, elected officials make political decisions based on what they think their base constituency wants rather than what's in the public health interest of the community.
Lynn McReynolds, Annapolis
