Oklahoma House Bill HB2981

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/8/22

Caption

Health; vaccines; employers; liability; damages; effective date.

Impact

One of the significant impacts of HB 2981 is the establishment of employer liability for adverse medical events resulting from vaccinations that are mandated by employers. Should an employee experience adverse effects from a required vaccination, the employer would be held responsible for damages. This provision adds a layer of financial risk to employers who require vaccinations, potentially influencing hiring and employment practices across various industries.

Summary

House Bill 2981 addresses the issue of employment-related vaccination mandates in the state of Oklahoma. The bill creates a framework that preempts any federal or local mandates regarding vaccinations as a condition of employment. It explicitly nullifies any statutes or executive orders that would impose vaccination requirements on Oklahoma citizens, thus asserting state control over this area of common concern. The law seeks to limit the influence of federal entities on state employment practices related to vaccination.

Contention

The bill has generated considerable debate among lawmakers, particularly concerning public health implications and constitutional rights. Proponents argue that HB 2981 safeguards individual liberties by ensuring that citizens cannot be compelled to undergo vaccinations as a condition for employment, while opponents raise concerns about the potential public health risks that could arise from limiting vaccination mandates. This contention highlights ongoing tensions between personal freedom and community health responsibilities in legislative discussions.