Why We Don’t Have Interstate Travel Bans to Prevent COVID-19

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, several countries implemented interstate travel bans to curb the spread of the virus. However, such measures are not commonly seen in the United States due to several reasons. This article will explore the factors that make interstate travel bans an impractical solution for controlling the spread of Covid-19.

The Economic Impact

One of the main reasons why interstate travel bans are not implemented in the United States is the potential economic impact. If the federal government were to block interstate travel, it would lead to a significant economic collapse. Unemployment would rise as businesses, particularly those in tourism and hospitality, would suffer. The loss of jobs would force many Americans to move back home, either to take care of family members or to find new employment. Governors and mayors would be required to enforce such bans, and this would create a politicized atmosphere.

The Survivability of COVID-19

While Covid-19 can be severe for individuals with underlying medical conditions, many people without these conditions can survive the illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed antiviral medications that can help mitigate the severity of the virus. These measures, combined with personal protective measures such as wearing masks, hygiene stations, and outdoor seating, can help contain the spread of the virus without resorting to travel bans.

The Legal and Constitutional Issues

The right to travel is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, and interstate travel bans would be a significant infringement of this right. The 14th Amendment protects this right, and any attempt to limit it would require a constitutional amendment. This is the most significant barrier to implementing interstate travel bans.

Global Examples and the Experience of Malaysia

Malaysia, for instance, implemented significant restrictions on interstate travel from March to June 2020. These measures, combined with other curbs on movement, helped to limit the spread of the virus. However, these measures were temporary, and as Malaysia moved towards a new normal, the restrictions were lifted. This approach shows that while interstate travel bans can work in certain contexts, they need to be managed with an understanding of the broader economic and social impact.

Political Opposition and Undermining Control Efforts

The U.S. federal government has often undermined the control efforts of state governments and the CDC. This has included actions such as undermining vaccine distribution efforts and opposing state-level control measures. The lack of coherent federal leadership has made it challenging to implement effective interstate travel bans without further economic and social disruption.

Conclusion

While interstate travel bans could have helped contain the spread of Covid-19 more effectively, the economic impact, the legal and constitutional issues, and the lack of coherent federal leadership make such measures impractical. Instead, states and local governments should focus on enhancing hygiene stations, promoting mask wearing, and encouraging outdoor activities. This approach can help mitigate the spread of the virus while minimizing economic disruption.