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Protecting Religious Students from Vaccine Mandates Act of 2021
12/30/2022, 8:03 AM
Summary of Bill HR 5967
The bill aims to ensure that students are not discriminated against or denied access to education based on their religious beliefs regarding vaccines. It seeks to uphold the First Amendment right to freedom of religion and protect the rights of students to make decisions about their own healthcare in accordance with their religious beliefs.
If passed, this bill would prevent educational institutions from requiring students to receive vaccines that conflict with their sincerely held religious beliefs. It would also prohibit institutions from denying admission or services to students based on their vaccination status. Overall, the Protecting Religious Students from Vaccine Mandates Act of 2021 is designed to safeguard the religious freedom of students and ensure that they are not unfairly targeted or discriminated against for their beliefs. It is an important piece of legislation that seeks to uphold the principles of religious freedom and protect the rights of students in educational settings.
Congressional Summary of HR 5967
Protecting Religious Students from Vaccine Mandates Act of 2021
This bill requires public institutions of higher education (IHEs) to provide for a religious exemption from COVID-19 vaccination requirements.
Through December 31, 2024, a public IHE that has a COVID-19 vaccination requirement must (1) provide a reasonable opportunity for individuals to receive a religious exemption from the vaccination requirement, and (2) notify individuals who are subject to the vaccination requirement about the procedures to apply for the religious exemption.
An IHE must submit an annual report to the Department of Education certifying that the IHE meets these requirements. An IHE that denies a religious exemption to 20 or more individuals during a calendar year must provide additional information.
The bill generally prohibits an IHE from receiving federal funds if it does not comply with the religious exemption requirements outlined by this bill.
