To Whom it May Concern:

I OPPOSE the FAST-TRACKING of Proposed Amendments to “12 VAC 5-90 Changing the Reporting Requirement for Influenza Virus in Virginia"  The amendments are not appropriate for fast-tracking. Va. Code § 2.2-4012.1 Fast-track rulemaking process allows for "rules that are expected to be noncontroversial” to be rushed through the rule making process. The proposed amendments are controversial in nature and application.

The proposed amendments, which require the reporting of detailed personal information to state officials, constitute unnecessary and unwarranted government overreach in violation of the Virginia Constitution, which guarantees all Virginia citizens the right to privacy.

The proposed amendments are especially invasive for Virginian citizens who test negative for influenza as The Centers for Disease Control acknowledges that about 80 percent of suspected influenza cases test negative for type A or B influenza when they are lab tested during the flu season.

In conclusion, I am opposed to fast tracking to “12 VAC 5-90 Changing the Reporting Requirement for Influenza Virus in Virginia", as this is an invasion of privacy to Virginia citizens.  

Sincerely,

Sunitha Piper