Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5916

Introduced
3/1/23  

Caption

Covid-19 Vaccination Mandate Prohibited

Impact

Should this bill pass, it would fundamentally alter the landscape of public health policy in Rhode Island regarding COVID-19 vaccination mandates. By preventing governmental authorities from requiring vaccinations, the bill is likely to affect compliance with federal and state public health recommendations. This could lead to increased public scrutiny and debate regarding individual rights versus community health responsibilities, especially in the continuing context of the pandemic.

Summary

House Bill H5916, titled 'COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate Prohibited', was introduced to the Rhode Island General Assembly in March 2023. The bill seeks to explicitly prohibit any governmental entity from implementing or enforcing a COVID-19 vaccination mandate. This extends to all forms of government bodies, including state and local agencies, thereby creating a clear directive against any attempts at mandating vaccinations within the jurisdiction of governmental organizations.

Contention

The provisions within H5916 emphasize a strong stance on individual choice regarding vaccination, aligning with sentiments from various advocacy groups. However, this has raised concerns among public health experts and opponents who argue that such an action could undermine efforts to achieve herd immunity and facilitate a return to normalcy. Critics may view this bill as a setback in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and a potential public health risk that could result in longer-term consequences for community health management.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0569

Covid-19 Vaccination Mandate Prohibited

RI H6080

Covid-19 Vaccination Mandate Prohibited

RI HB27

COVID-19 vaccination status; mandatory COVID-19 vaccination prohibited, discrimination prohibited.

RI SB23

Prohibiting mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for WV residents

RI SF0094

Penalties for mandating COVID-19 vaccinations-2.

RI HB1408

Prohibition on COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

RI SB1026

Relating to prohibited COVID-19 vaccine mandates and vaccination status discrimination.

RI HB1451

Vaccinations; prohibit state and local agencies and officials from mandating COVID-19 vaccinations.

RI HB934

COVID-19; Employer-mandated vaccinations, required exemptions, civil penalties.

RI HB1224

Prohibiting state and local governments from adopting certain mandates in response to COVID-19; and prohibiting employers and places of public accommodation from discriminating on the basis of vaccination status.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.