Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1296

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/8/22

Caption

Vaccinations and immunizations; providing exemption form for use by employees to refuse to disclose vaccination status to employers. Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SB1296 will significantly affect how businesses manage vaccination policies for their employees. It prohibits employers from discriminating against or penalizing employees who choose not to disclose their vaccination status, and it requires employers to recognize and provide accommodations for employees who refuse disclosure. This creates a structured process for requesting exemptions, including a mandated timeframe for employers to respond to such requests, effectively enhancing employee rights regarding medical privacy.

Summary

Senate Bill 1296, known as the 'Privacy and Conscience Protection Act', aims to amend existing employment discrimination laws in the state of Oklahoma by adding protections related to vaccination and immunization status. The bill modifies several provisions of the law to include disclosure of vaccination status as a basis for unlawful discrimination in employment. It creates an obligation for employers to provide a certification of disclosure exemption which allows employees to refuse disclosing their vaccination status due to privacy concerns.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1296 revolve around the balance between public health interests and individual privacy rights. Advocates for the bill assert that it reinforces employees' rights to personal confidentiality and autonomy regarding health information, particularly in the current context of COVID-19 vaccinations. However, opponents express concerns that the bill may hinder public health initiatives aimed at increasing vaccination rates and could create challenges for employers trying to maintain a safe workplace amid the pandemic.