Bill would OK quarantine in health crises

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering giving public health officials the authority to isolate individuals and set up quarantines to contain the outbreak of serious contagious diseases.

The quarantine order could come in writing or verbally. Those forced into quarantine could appeal to the Superior Court.

The bill would also give the public health commissioner the power to evacuate public buildings, close access to contaminated areas, and purchase and distribute serums, vaccines or antibiotics.

Critics say the emergence of swine flu shows the importance of having laws on the books to deal with public health crises. Critics say the bill gives the government too much power.

The bill, which has been in the works for years, is set to be debated by House lawmakers on Thursday.