The nature of principles, like the ones enumerated in the US Constitution, is that they do not change with changing circumstances.

Like the 10th amendment? The 10th amendment seems to give a lot of leeway to States, assuming their respective Constitutions allow governors to take on emergency powers during a public health crisis which seems to be the case in most states.

What about the 9 amendments before that one?

Restricting religious practice or the right to assembly are not principles we should cede.

To my mind exchanging liberty for safety is never common sense.

I'm having trouble thinking of any safety measure that does not involve giving up some liberty.

If you’re going to use words like “never”, are you fine with the right to punch whoever you like?

I have noticed in the last ~20 years (?) that some laws have had expiration dates.

I'm uncertain if this is a good thing or a bad thing.

On one hand it could try new things and revert them if they don't work, and prevent temporary necessities from lingering.

On the other hand, it could also be used to pass truly terrible laws under the guise of impermanence.

Yes, exactly why there's a Bureau of Overreach Rollbacks.