Peoria, Ill — One Republican state lawmaker in Illinois thinks he can gather support behind a proposed statewide ban on vaccine mandates.
The so-called “Freedom Act” (HB 4239) would make it, “unlawful for any person, public or private institution, or public official to discriminate against any person in any manner because of such person’s refusal to obtain, receive, or accept a COVID-19 vaccination contrary to his or her beliefs.”
The legislation also prohibits a public official, guardian, agency, institution, or entity to discriminate based on vaccine status and the measure allows an individual to file a lawsuit in the event their religious rights are violated.
“My legislation is necessary and is essential for the preservation of our Right of Conscience”, Niemerg said when announcing the move on Friday.
Niemerg says he believes not only that government issued vaccine mandates are wrong, but — he argues they will ultimately prove less effective.
Niemerg insists that giving vaccine skeptics or vaccine opponents the ability to talk to their doctor and choose for themselves whether or not to get the shot, will ultimately lead to more widespread vaccinations among Illinois residents.
Of course, vaccine mandate supporters argue such measures are a public health and safety priority — as well as a more effective way to achieve herd immunity from COVID-19.
Niemberg says he believes he can rally support behind the bill, but prospects likely aren’t favorable in the Democratic controlled Illinois state legislature.
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