In 2025, vaccine discrimination and religious exemption bills emerged as notable trends, most aiming to prevent differential treatment based on vaccination status and expand faith-based opt-outs. Anti-discrimination measures sought to protect access to jobs, education, healthcare and public services for the unvaccinated, with some proposals classifying vaccination status as a protected class. Religious exemption bills reinforced the right to decline vaccines on the basis of sincerely held beliefs, framing these protections as essential to constitutional freedoms. Supporters argue these initiatives safeguard individual rights, while critics warn they could dangerously weaken public health defenses, underscoring the tension between personal autonomy and collective responsibility. With federal policy shifts under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fueling debate, these trends are expected to continue into 2026.
Earlier this month Montana’s Supreme Court upheld its existing anti-discrimination law, HB 702 (2021), reinforcing that no one can be denied goods, services or employment based on vaccination status.
FOCUS will continue to monitor legislation related to Vaccine Liability in state legislatures across the country.
