Oroho/Space/Wirths to Propose Legislation to Investigate Origins of COVID Pandemic

In response to the growing scientific consensus that the COVID-19 pandemic began in a research laboratory in Wuhan, China, District 24 legislators Senator Steve Oroho, Assemblyman Parker Space and Assemblyman Hal Wirths will propose a resolution that puts the New Jersey Legislature on record in a formal request that Congress conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the origins of the COVID pandemic.

“The incredible loss of life and the global economy-crushing impact of the pandemic demands nothing less than an exhaustive investigation,” Senator Oroho said. “The theory the pandemic originated in a Chinese lab, once dismissed as conspiracy, is now gaining credibility with scientists and researchers around the globe. To take appropriate steps to preclude a more viral or deadly outbreak in the future, it is imperative to positively identify the virus’ origin. Every possible explanation should be considered, and the viral research lab in Wuhan is a logical starting point.”

The three Northwest New Jersey Legislators will also propose legislation to set up an independent bi-partisan commission to examine the state’s response to the COVID pandemic and the relative effectiveness of that response.  The commission will make recommendations so that the necessary reforms are in place should a similar emergency occur in the future.

“We would hope to never have to deal with a crisis like this again, but if we do, the state must be better prepared,” said Assemblyman Space. “Now is the time to put evaluate and develop a crisis plan so we don’t see a repeat of the massive loss of life in nursing homes, or an economic shutdown that cost the jobs of than a million New Jersey residents. We must restore the public’s confidence in their government.”

“After what we have all been through the last 15 months, it is obvious there is much to learn from Trenton’s mistakes,” said Assemblyman Wirths. “We are finally beginning to see a return to some level of normalcy. The independent commission would determine what worked, what failed, and what should have been done to control COVID’s spread and mitigate the damage. It is our responsibility to ensure that Trenton does better if there is a next time.”