Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4726

Introduced
7/19/23  
Refer
7/19/23  

Caption

To terminate the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for aliens, and for other purposes.

Impact

The proposed legislation would effectively repeal any existing federal authority to mandate that aliens be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of entering the United States, obtaining permanent residency, or naturalizing as U.S. citizens. This move could signify a broader shift in federal policy concerning vaccination requirements, particularly within the immigration sector, which has seen significant scrutiny during and after the pandemic. The cessation of federal funds to enforce such requirements is anticipated to lessen the governmental push for vaccination among non-citizens, reflecting a growing emphasis on personal choice within public health policies.

Summary

House Bill 4726 aims to terminate the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for aliens. The bill stipulates that, upon enactment, the existing vaccination mandate set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would no longer be applicable to certain groups of individuals, including aliens applying for visas or adjusting their residency status. This legislative proposal is a direct response to ongoing debates regarding vaccination mandates that have polarized public opinion throughout the pandemic.

Contention

This bill has likely sparked debate among lawmakers, advocacy groups, and public health officials. Proponents argue that such mandates infringe on personal rights and freedoms, particularly for immigrants seeking to enter or live in the United States. Critics, on the other hand, may raise concerns about public health implications, suggesting that easing vaccination requirements for aliens could lead to heightened risks of spreading COVID-19 or other infectious diseases. As this bill progresses, the ongoing deliberation will revolve around balancing health safety against individual liberties and immigration practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB3094

To terminate the requirement imposed by the Secretary of Homeland Security for proof of COVID-19 vaccination for foreign travelers, and for other purposes.

US HB991

COVID–19 Vaccination Non-Discrimination Act

US HB403

No Mandates Act This bill prohibits federal agencies and certain entities that receive federal funding from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations. Specifically, federal agencies may not issue rules, regulations, or guidance that require an individual to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. The bill also prohibits requiring a COVID-19 vaccination to access federal property and services or congressional grounds and services. Additionally, an entity that received federal COVID-19 relief funds or receives other federal funds after this bill's enactment may not require a COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of providing any service to an individual.

US HB4

To prohibit the use of Federal funds to propose, establish, implement, or enforce any requirement that an individual wear a mask or other face covering, or be vaccinated, to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and for other purposes.

US SB420

COVID–19 Vaccination Non-Discrimination Act

US HB4589

To amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to provide for the registration of proxy advisory firms, and for other purposes.

US HB118

No Vaccine Passports Act This bill prohibits certain actions related to vaccine passports and proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Specifically, a federal agency may not issue a vaccine passport, vaccine pass, or other standardized documentation for the purpose of certifying the COVID-19 vaccination status of a U.S. citizen to a third party, or otherwise publish or share any COVID-19 vaccination record of a U.S. citizen or similar health information. Additionally, proof of COVID-19 vaccination shall not be required to access federal or congressional property or services.

US HB3234

To authorize the immediate expulsion of inadmissible aliens attempting to enter the United States by fraud or without a necessary entry document, and for other purposes.

US HB121

No Vaccine Passports Act This bill prohibits certain actions related to vaccine passports and proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Specifically, a federal agency may not issue a vaccine passport, vaccine pass, or other standardized documentation for the purpose of certifying the COVID-19 vaccination status of a U.S. citizen to a third party, or otherwise publish or share any COVID-19 vaccination record of a U.S. citizen or similar health information. Additionally, proof of COVID-19 vaccination shall not be required to access federal or congressional property or services.

US SR332

A resolution prohibiting the imposition of vaccination, testing, and masking requirements relating to COVID-19 for Senate Pages.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.