Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1186

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/8/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

State Employment; Prohibiting hiring discrimination based on vaccination status; Prohibiting vaccine mandates for state employment. Effective date.

Impact

The implications of SB1186 are significant in shaping employment practices within state agencies. Should the bill become law, it will effectively codify the right for potential employees to not disclose their vaccination status without the risk of facing discrimination. This legislative change may set a precedent for future employment law within Oklahoma, influencing how state employers establish hiring criteria and workplace policies concerning vaccinations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1186 addresses state employment policies by prohibiting hiring discrimination based on an individual's vaccination status. The bill mandates that no state agency or their subcontractors can consider vaccination status when hiring for full-time or part-time positions. Furthermore, it establishes that such entities cannot mandate vaccinations as a prerequisite for employment in state roles. The bill aims to protect individuals who may choose not to vaccinate from potential employment barriers related to their vaccination status.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB1186 may highlight key points of contention regarding public health policies and individual rights. Proponents of the bill argue that it protects personal choice and freedom in the workforce, emphasizing the importance of non-discrimination in hiring practices based on health choices. Conversely, critics may express concerns that the elimination of vaccination mandates could pose risks to public health, particularly in state roles where employees may interact with vulnerable populations or the public at large. The tension between health safety and employment rights is likely to be a central theme in the debate surrounding this legislation.