Missouri’s New DHSS Director Says New Law Restricting Power of Local Health Leaders Haunts Him

A new Missouri law restricts the power of local health leaders on health-related orders. This year, the Missouri Legislature passed and the governor signed the plan limiting local health officials to ordering the closure of businesses, schools, churches and gatherings for up to thirty days. After that time, closures will be left up to the local city council to decide. During a press call, Missouri’s new Department of Health and Senior Services Director, Don Kauerauf, was asked if he is concerned the law will exacerbate the spread of the more infectious delta variant.