The NPR Politics Podcast Weekly Roundup: January 14th
Jan 14, 2022
Kelsey Snell, NPR's congressional correspondent, provides a fresh perspective on the political landscape. The Supreme Court's recent ruling against Biden’s vaccine mandate for large businesses raises questions about federal authority. Snell discusses the implications for public health policy and businesses. Tensions in the Senate over a contentious voting rights proposal reveal divisions among Democrats, particularly regarding the filibuster. This dynamic reflects the urgent challenges facing Congress ahead of the midterms.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
SCOTUS Blocks Vaccine Mandate
- The Supreme Court blocked Biden's vaccine-or-test mandate for large businesses.
- They allowed a separate mandate for healthcare workers to stand.
OSHA Mandate Too Broad
- The Supreme Court deemed the OSHA mandate too broad, exceeding Congressional authorization.
- COVID-19 isn't an occupational hazard; it's a general health risk.
COVID-19: A Universal Hazard
- The court argues that COVID-19 is a universal hazard, not specific to the workplace.
- This limits OSHA's authority to mandate vaccines.