Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB181

Introduced
1/31/23  

Caption

No Vaccine Passports Act

Impact

The proposed legislation would revoke the authority of federal and state entities to create or facilitate vaccine passport systems, thereby bolstering individual autonomy over medical decisions. Furthermore, it mandates that no public or private entity may discriminate against individuals based on their vaccination status in accessing goods, services, or employment opportunities. This shift represents a significant alteration in how public health policy interfaces with individual rights, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery strategies.

Summary

SB181, titled the 'No Vaccine Passports Act,' aims to protect individual liberties by prohibiting discrimination based on vaccination status. The bill specifically addresses the rise of vaccine passports and mandates that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting that individuals should not be coerced into receiving vaccinations through the imposition of such passports or similar documentation. It seeks to elevate personal privacy rights, ensuring that individuals' vaccination records remain confidential unless explicit consent is provided.

Contention

While proponents of SB181 argue that it defends personal freedoms and prevents governmental overreach into private health matters, critics caution that such measures could undermine public health initiatives by discouraging vaccinations. There are concerns regarding the potential for increased discrimination against individuals who may not be vaccinated due to health issues or personal beliefs, highlighting a civic tension between public health safety and individual liberties. Discussions surrounding this bill reveal a broader societal debate about the balance of government authority and personal choice.

Companion Bills

US HB118

Related 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 SB167

Related No Vaccine Mandates Act of 2023

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