As the possibility of reinforced government mask mandates grows, federal and state lawmakers in Alabama are trying to get out in front of the issue. 

State Rep. Brock Colvin (R-Albertville) filed a bill that would prohibit government-sanctioned mask mandates. The bill awaits lawmakers when they return to Montgomery in February for the next session. 

“I do not believe government should mandate anything that encroaches on individual liberty,” Colvin said, adding that state health officials were wrong to impose such a mandate in 2020. 

RELATED: Britt calls for ‘individual liberty’ in mask mandate pushback

Colvin said the bill would specifically prohibit government entities and the state health officer from requiring face mask mandates to prevent the spread of diseases.

It provides exceptions for licensed medical facilities and state and local detention facilities. 

“This bill will not prohibit private businesses from operating as they see fit,” Colvin said. “Rather, this bill prevents Big Brother from mandating restrictions on private citizens.”

Colvin’s assignments to House Commerce and Small Business, Insurance, and the Education Ways and Means committees have connected him with small business owners and leaders across the state who are worried about taking a hit from a reimposed mandate.

“There has been little scientific evidence that masks accomplished anything in preventing the spread of COVID,” Colvin said.

“We should be encouraging personal responsibility and empowering families as opposed to allowing government to control the way we move forward.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270