Representative E. Werner Reschke (R-Klamath Falls), Representative Vikki Breese-Iverson (RPrineville), and Senator Dennis Linthicum (R-Klamath Falls) strongly object to the nearly $10,000 in fines imposed by OSHA (Oregon Safety and Health Agency) against Howard Drugs in Lakeview, Oregon. OSHA found Howard Pharmacy out of compliance with the Governor’s mask mandate orders. This case was reported on in the national media. These legislators represent the citizens of Lake County and are concerned with the apparent lack of due process exhibited by OSHA.

“This presumption of guilt and judgement is outrageous. OSHA’s ruling is incongruent with their own rules, allowing a business to accommodate for those who have a medical condition that precludes them wearing a mask. This action has very little to do with slowing the spread of the Coronavirus. It is more of the Governor’s plan to serve her revenge cold and slow,” said Senator Linthicum.

Representative Reschke stated, “There is no proof of harm having been done by Howard Drugs. They followed the rules. These ”preventative fines” are an overreach by state government. There was likely more exposure of COVID-19 to the Lake County community by the inspectors who came to Lakeview, from outside the area, than any chance of the spread by Howard Drugs.”

“Howard Drugs is the only pharmacy in Lake County. If this fourth-generation business were to close, the next nearest pharmacy is 90 miles away. It would be like closing all pharmacies in Portland and telling residents they had to drive to Eugene to fill their prescriptions,” explained Representative Breese-Iverson. Together, these state legislators said they will contact OSHA to request a reconsideration of the fines.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2020-08-26 08:45:36