Critics Rip Plans for Forced Injections Health Officials to Get Bioterrorism Authority

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Byline: P. Douglas Filaroski, Times-Union staff writer

A state still reeling from anthrax attacks is quietly preparing to give health officials the power to quarantine and require vaccinations in a bioterror attack.

Despite civil rights concerns, Gov. Jeb Bush said last week he intends to sign a law expanding the powers of Florida health officials in declaring emergencies.

"I've weighed the civil liberties issues against the needs for us as a state to be prepared, and I think I will sign," Bush said.

Bush's intentions rankled opponents barely heard amid Florida's budget battles this legislative session.

"Obviously, the threat from …