GB Appling
Contributing Member
Very Good Info. Thanks for sharing.
CORONA Filing for a religious exemption
- Thread starter xtreme_right
- Start date
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
An article that might help in writing a religious exemption.
Vaccine Mandates and the Christian's Liberty of Conscience: From 2021 to 1721 and Back Again
Vaccine Mandates and the Christian's Liberty of Conscience: From 2021 to 1721 and Back Again
DH submitted first paperwork. They came back asking about how often does he need to be around other people sort of questions. However he didn't get asked for vaccine history like his buddy was asked in the second round. He also talked to Foundation for Moral Law, who said to fill that out so he did. Waiting on what will happen next.
Plan on arranging the meeting while you are at it.
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
Coerced Inoculations and (Religious) Exemptions - Trinity Bible Chapel
Coerced Inoculations and (Religious) Exemptions
Jacob Reaume
Jesus predicted that there would be “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6) preceding or leading up to a severe outpouring of judgement, and even so there are now “vaccine passports and rumors of vaccine passports.” I am not opposed to medical treatments of this nature, as in vaccines, but I am opposed to coerced medical treatments. Coercing persons to insert foreign objects or substances into their own bodies violates human dignity. The person or government that claims the right to coerce persons to receive inoculations is essentially claiming ownership over the persons they coerce. A civil government that forces injections is a civil government that claims ownership over our bodies. They are attempting to enslave us.
Some are asking about religious exemptions for vaccines. We cannot say, “We at Trinity Bible Chapel are religiously opposed to vaccinations wholesale.” We can say, “We at Trinity Bible Chapel believe that individuals must obey their consciences on vaccinations.” Some might wonder if they can in good conscience claim a conscientious objection to these injections. Yes, they can. How so? There is reasonable evidence that the vaccines might cause harm (for example, see hereand here). I am not saying they do definitely cause harm, and I am not saying persons should avoid the injections wholesale. I am saying that there are those among us who are convinced the injections do cause harm, and that is based on reasonable evidence. I am also concerned about the level of pressure being thrust upon people right now. My experience is that high-pressure sales-jobs are often snow jobs.
In any event, if someone is convinced that an act is harmful, then that individual must not carry out that act. The exception to that rule is when the Law of God mandates the act. The Law of God does not mandate vaccination. So, if an individual believes that vaccination is harmful, that person, in the interest of upholding the 6th Commandment, is conscientiously bound not to receive the vaccine.
Again, there is room for disagreement on the efficacy of vaccinations within the church. The choice rests on the individual. And the individual is bound to obey his conscience on the matter. If he, in his conscience, believes the vaccine is a source of harm, he is bound to uphold conscience.
For those whose consciences are bound not to be vaccinated, I have crafted the following statement in the event that a religious exemption is requested:
Whereas Christians are free (John 8:36, Galatians 5:1, 1 Peter 2:16); whereas Jesus Christ is Lord of the conscience (Romans 14:1-12); whereas human beings – body, soul, and conscience – bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27); and whereas Christ calls each person to render his body, soul, and conscience unto God (Matthew 22:21); we thereby believe that an individual who is opposed to being vaccinated, as informed by knowledge and conscience, is bound by the Lord Jesus to not be vaccinated, and we also thereby believe that all entities and persons must solemnly recognize the individual’s decision not to be vaccinated as God’s will. In short, a person who is conscientiously opposed to being vaccinated is bound by God not to be vaccinated. To do contrary to conscience is sin, and to attempt to coerce an individual to go against conscience is also sin.
In the event that an employer or superior is attempting to coerce an individual to be vaccinated, you should really consult a lawyer.
Coerced Inoculations and (Religious) Exemptions
Jacob Reaume
Jesus predicted that there would be “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6) preceding or leading up to a severe outpouring of judgement, and even so there are now “vaccine passports and rumors of vaccine passports.” I am not opposed to medical treatments of this nature, as in vaccines, but I am opposed to coerced medical treatments. Coercing persons to insert foreign objects or substances into their own bodies violates human dignity. The person or government that claims the right to coerce persons to receive inoculations is essentially claiming ownership over the persons they coerce. A civil government that forces injections is a civil government that claims ownership over our bodies. They are attempting to enslave us.
Some are asking about religious exemptions for vaccines. We cannot say, “We at Trinity Bible Chapel are religiously opposed to vaccinations wholesale.” We can say, “We at Trinity Bible Chapel believe that individuals must obey their consciences on vaccinations.” Some might wonder if they can in good conscience claim a conscientious objection to these injections. Yes, they can. How so? There is reasonable evidence that the vaccines might cause harm (for example, see hereand here). I am not saying they do definitely cause harm, and I am not saying persons should avoid the injections wholesale. I am saying that there are those among us who are convinced the injections do cause harm, and that is based on reasonable evidence. I am also concerned about the level of pressure being thrust upon people right now. My experience is that high-pressure sales-jobs are often snow jobs.
In any event, if someone is convinced that an act is harmful, then that individual must not carry out that act. The exception to that rule is when the Law of God mandates the act. The Law of God does not mandate vaccination. So, if an individual believes that vaccination is harmful, that person, in the interest of upholding the 6th Commandment, is conscientiously bound not to receive the vaccine.
Again, there is room for disagreement on the efficacy of vaccinations within the church. The choice rests on the individual. And the individual is bound to obey his conscience on the matter. If he, in his conscience, believes the vaccine is a source of harm, he is bound to uphold conscience.
For those whose consciences are bound not to be vaccinated, I have crafted the following statement in the event that a religious exemption is requested:
Whereas Christians are free (John 8:36, Galatians 5:1, 1 Peter 2:16); whereas Jesus Christ is Lord of the conscience (Romans 14:1-12); whereas human beings – body, soul, and conscience – bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27); and whereas Christ calls each person to render his body, soul, and conscience unto God (Matthew 22:21); we thereby believe that an individual who is opposed to being vaccinated, as informed by knowledge and conscience, is bound by the Lord Jesus to not be vaccinated, and we also thereby believe that all entities and persons must solemnly recognize the individual’s decision not to be vaccinated as God’s will. In short, a person who is conscientiously opposed to being vaccinated is bound by God not to be vaccinated. To do contrary to conscience is sin, and to attempt to coerce an individual to go against conscience is also sin.
In the event that an employer or superior is attempting to coerce an individual to be vaccinated, you should really consult a lawyer.
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
Our Pastors | Paterson, NJ | Harvest Outreach Ministry
Our Pastors | Paterson, NJ | Harvest Outreach Ministry
Disclaimer: If one chooses to take the COVID-19 vaccine, it is perfectly reasonable to make that decision. With careful research and analyzing the projections regarding mandatory vaccinations happening within employment, college enrollment, and many other institutions, as a church we desire that our communities hold to their God-given right to either deny or reject any suggestion to get vaccinated for sake of free will. Regardless of any disagreements with our stance on the matter, we will not reject nor discount anyone who chooses or does not choose to get vaccinated.
1. We believe that any law that infringes on our freedoms to choose go against our beliefs and against the constitution of the United States as established by our founding fathers. “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” (First Amendment)
2. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit as specified in our doctrines accordance to 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God and your are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
3. The United States declared independence from Great Britain in 1776 to secure for all Americans their unalienable rights. These rights include, but are not limited to, “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. (Anything that is made mandatory by infringing on our unalienable rights, to life, liberty (Right to choose), and the pursuit of happiness, (Not be obligated to do anything that goes against our religious beliefs), goes in direct violation of our declaration of independence!
4. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1). There are no long-term studies concerning the current vaccines that are being mandated, nor can the government, CDC, or pharmaceutical companies guarantee our health freedoms from long term harmful consequences due to these experimental vaccines. These current vaccines have not been FDA approved, other than for emergency use only. No government can create a law that obligates people to take part in these current experimental studies outside of their free will as is noted and upheld by the US courts concerning the Nuremberg Trials of 1946.
5. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, individuals have the right to be free from discrimination on the basis of religion. As part of their religious beliefs, many individuals object to vaccines. Employers are required to accommodate religious observances and practices, unless doing so imposes an undue hardship on the business. Religion is very broadly defined and encompasses not only organized religions, but also your personal informed beliefs as an individual. Religion under the law can also encompass non-theistic and moral beliefs. In Chenzira v. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. 2012 U.S. Dist. Lexis 182139 (S.D. Ohio, 2012), the court recognized that veganism, in some circumstances, may constitute a sincerely held religious belief. That court exempted an employee from a flu shot requirement. Once an employer determines that a true religious exemption exists, that employer must make an accommodation for the employee and not force them to take a vaccine that is against their personal beliefs. Such accommodations may include reducing a mask requirement, modifying work duties to comply with social distancing, adjusting an employee’s schedule, or allow an employee work from home.
6. Key to Harvest Church members and congregants. According to the law if your personal beliefs and faith goes against taking the vaccines you qualify under the religious exemption. However, it must be in direct relations to your personal faith reasons and not because of health concerns only. If your employer is mandating you to take the vaccine all you are required, is to inform that based on your personal faith and religious belief you cannot take the vaccine period. You do not have to give them your church constitution or prove to them that this is your personal belief! Them forcing you to prove your faith is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
7. Harvest Church is a ministry that will not obligate nor mandate it’s member(s) to take or not take the vaccine as every member has their own freedom to choose. At HOM we will never violate your free will to choose whether to take the vaccines or not. However, we strongly feel that the government nor educational institutions have the right to impose their will on the people by making these experimental vaccines mandatory. (These are not FDA approved vaccines and as such are experimental). (All the law requires is that based on your personal conviction and belief you refuse to take these vaccines)!
8. If you feel your rights have been violated please consult a legal attorney and fight for your freedoms and rights as given to you by God.
9. This document is not a legal document, but can be used as a simple guide to help Christians make their own personal decision as we are all dealing with both COVID-19 confusion and scarcity.
10. Employers have tried to navigate through the religious exemptions Americans have been granted by the laws of the Federal government. You cannot be obligated to take a vaccine you do not feel the need to accept, based on the context of your faith and religion. Many of the mandates given by colleges and employers have not been challenged before the Supreme Court, but can be noted and labeled as unconstitutional or constitutional at the highest court of the land. Also, remember that under the HIPPA law you are not required to speak about your health with anyone outside of your primary doctor and your medical service providers. No employer or educational institution has the right to obligate you to reveal your medical private information.
Our Pastors | Paterson, NJ | Harvest Outreach Ministry
Disclaimer: If one chooses to take the COVID-19 vaccine, it is perfectly reasonable to make that decision. With careful research and analyzing the projections regarding mandatory vaccinations happening within employment, college enrollment, and many other institutions, as a church we desire that our communities hold to their God-given right to either deny or reject any suggestion to get vaccinated for sake of free will. Regardless of any disagreements with our stance on the matter, we will not reject nor discount anyone who chooses or does not choose to get vaccinated.
1. We believe that any law that infringes on our freedoms to choose go against our beliefs and against the constitution of the United States as established by our founding fathers. “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” (First Amendment)
2. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit as specified in our doctrines accordance to 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God and your are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
3. The United States declared independence from Great Britain in 1776 to secure for all Americans their unalienable rights. These rights include, but are not limited to, “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. (Anything that is made mandatory by infringing on our unalienable rights, to life, liberty (Right to choose), and the pursuit of happiness, (Not be obligated to do anything that goes against our religious beliefs), goes in direct violation of our declaration of independence!
4. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1). There are no long-term studies concerning the current vaccines that are being mandated, nor can the government, CDC, or pharmaceutical companies guarantee our health freedoms from long term harmful consequences due to these experimental vaccines. These current vaccines have not been FDA approved, other than for emergency use only. No government can create a law that obligates people to take part in these current experimental studies outside of their free will as is noted and upheld by the US courts concerning the Nuremberg Trials of 1946.
5. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, individuals have the right to be free from discrimination on the basis of religion. As part of their religious beliefs, many individuals object to vaccines. Employers are required to accommodate religious observances and practices, unless doing so imposes an undue hardship on the business. Religion is very broadly defined and encompasses not only organized religions, but also your personal informed beliefs as an individual. Religion under the law can also encompass non-theistic and moral beliefs. In Chenzira v. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. 2012 U.S. Dist. Lexis 182139 (S.D. Ohio, 2012), the court recognized that veganism, in some circumstances, may constitute a sincerely held religious belief. That court exempted an employee from a flu shot requirement. Once an employer determines that a true religious exemption exists, that employer must make an accommodation for the employee and not force them to take a vaccine that is against their personal beliefs. Such accommodations may include reducing a mask requirement, modifying work duties to comply with social distancing, adjusting an employee’s schedule, or allow an employee work from home.
6. Key to Harvest Church members and congregants. According to the law if your personal beliefs and faith goes against taking the vaccines you qualify under the religious exemption. However, it must be in direct relations to your personal faith reasons and not because of health concerns only. If your employer is mandating you to take the vaccine all you are required, is to inform that based on your personal faith and religious belief you cannot take the vaccine period. You do not have to give them your church constitution or prove to them that this is your personal belief! Them forcing you to prove your faith is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
7. Harvest Church is a ministry that will not obligate nor mandate it’s member(s) to take or not take the vaccine as every member has their own freedom to choose. At HOM we will never violate your free will to choose whether to take the vaccines or not. However, we strongly feel that the government nor educational institutions have the right to impose their will on the people by making these experimental vaccines mandatory. (These are not FDA approved vaccines and as such are experimental). (All the law requires is that based on your personal conviction and belief you refuse to take these vaccines)!
8. If you feel your rights have been violated please consult a legal attorney and fight for your freedoms and rights as given to you by God.
9. This document is not a legal document, but can be used as a simple guide to help Christians make their own personal decision as we are all dealing with both COVID-19 confusion and scarcity.
10. Employers have tried to navigate through the religious exemptions Americans have been granted by the laws of the Federal government. You cannot be obligated to take a vaccine you do not feel the need to accept, based on the context of your faith and religion. Many of the mandates given by colleges and employers have not been challenged before the Supreme Court, but can be noted and labeled as unconstitutional or constitutional at the highest court of the land. Also, remember that under the HIPPA law you are not required to speak about your health with anyone outside of your primary doctor and your medical service providers. No employer or educational institution has the right to obligate you to reveal your medical private information.
Breeta
Veteran Member
Here is a link to youtube playlist for religious exemptions. Various questions / topics discussed, including appeal & what to do if denied. Same woman as I posted before. she’s great.
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
I finally got the expected email today. They are only giving us until Oct 22 to submit any exemptions.
Has anyone here heard back yet if they were successful?
Has anyone here heard back yet if they were successful?
Not yet, mine has made it through all the administrative wickets and should be going up for "consideration" in the next few weeks. Honestly I am not hearing good things from the rumor mill.
This is second hand, but allegedly religious waivers (.mil, AF specifically) are being denied if the person does not have an "established history of refusing vaccines/activities due to religious reasons". Not legal, and fightable, but rumor also has it that even chaplains are getting their religious exemptions denied.
In my opinion, they went into this fully intending to deny every exemption request. I have noticed alot of deliberate wording in all of my counseling statements concerning my non deployability, and the effect this will have on "the mission". I think denying all exemptions for "mission requirements" gives them an easy out. This process is just a necessary bureaucratic check box that they have to check before they boot the refusals.
Same thing with medical exemptions. My first attempt was for a medical exemption, and it was denied because there are literally only two reasons for a medical exemption. I kid you not, verbatim, "you have had an adverse reaction from your first round of the vaccine" or "you had documented heart issues during a bout with COVID". The end. No other conditions qualify. And best part? Those medical exemptions are only temporary.
I have been telling my servicemembers this: Prepare yourself. This exemption process only buys us time, and nothing more. There will be a time when our exemptions are denied, appeals are over, and lawsuits declined. It will then be the moment of truth. I went into this fully knowing that I will be discharged, with more than likely an other than honorable. I suggest you prepare yourself for the same. Who knows, we might get luck and have our exemption approved. Or the whole house of cards could collapse and our vax status will no longer matter.
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
I agree that the “option” to file for an exemption is just theatre. Even if mine is approved, it’s just a matter of time before it’s reversed. I know that a lot can happen in a few months either way.
I pray that when the time comes, I will find strength in my Lord. I remind myself daily to “count it all joy”.
James 1
2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
I pray that when the time comes, I will find strength in my Lord. I remind myself daily to “count it all joy”.
James 1
2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Thats all we can do. I pray daily for wisdom and discernment. I keep getting reminded by that little voice. "Wise as serpents, harmless as doves"
Three + weeks after submission, and still no word. The vine rumor is management still have to word as to how to proceed. To wait till the last moment to say something .........really? I'm suppose to get my retirement paperwork in order and deal with disciplinary actions, selling a home...and such at the last minute? I guess that's how they roll. But, I'm still hoping for the best, my Lord is all powerful : )
wvstuck
Only worry about what you can control!
I have no faith in man to lead me in the ways of Christ, I read the living word of God and I pray for guidance from the great councilor Jesus Christ. I have been in council with my savior and the Holy Spirit has left the distinct instruction that I should not participate in the vaccine as innocent children were murdered in the womb to create or test this product. God will deal directly with that himself, but today we are only here to discuss the vaccine. (make direct eye contact)
Ratchets up the pressure if you havent been preparing like mad for the possibiity.
"Look we know this was dropped on you last minute, nothing we could do about it. Are you reallllllly prepared to leave tomorrow? Is your family? How will you fed, house, and clothe them? Do you have a plan? You dont have to worry you know. It doesnt have to be like this. You just have to take the jab. We have someone here that can do it. Nice and easy. Come on now. Nice and easy".
Telescope Steve
Veteran Member
I have a really good doctor. And she tells her patients that she cannot undo the so called vaccine. Once you get it injected into your body all she can do is treat the symptoms. She cannot change your cells back the way they were before you took the jab.
My research on religious exemptions leads me to believe that there is only 1 thing needed. That is for you to have a sincere religious belief. Unfortunately that might not be enough for many employers or agencies.
Hold tight to your faith. And remember that we have authority over our bodies. May God bless all of you in this fight.
My research on religious exemptions leads me to believe that there is only 1 thing needed. That is for you to have a sincere religious belief. Unfortunately that might not be enough for many employers or agencies.
Hold tight to your faith. And remember that we have authority over our bodies. May God bless all of you in this fight.
wvstuck
Only worry about what you can control!
Pray and seek council.
Matthew 10:19
New King James Version
But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak;
Matthew 10:19
New King James Version
But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak;
wvstuck
Only worry about what you can control!
I hope he retained copies of everything submitted: Denying of religious freedom will be what the Supreme Court deals with first in my opinion. Never quit the job, show up until they speak the words that you are fired, carry something to record with at all times.
Have them contact Liberty Counsel ASAP! Instructions are on the website link below and they will guide them through the next steps. Time is of the essence!
EXEMPT - Liberty Counsel
Liberty Counsel is a nonprofit litigation, education, and policy organization with offices in Washington, DC and Florida, advancing religious freedom, the sanctity of human life, and the family.
lc.org
Haybails
When In Doubt, Throttle Out!
My employer has a mandate in place - submit proof of vaccination or submit to weekly tests. Additionally, they released an "unrelated" decision (at almost the same time) that they would allow NO remote-working from home.
I submitted a communication to HR in which I invoked my right to religious exemption to the jab and testing.
Two weeks later I (and two others I know who have either invoked religious exemption or straight up denied the jab or test) received private permission (that I'm not supposed to mention to others) to work from home. I never received any communication from HR that my religious exemption has been granted. I'm guessing this allows them to spin their numbers somehow in their favor.
HB
I submitted a communication to HR in which I invoked my right to religious exemption to the jab and testing.
Two weeks later I (and two others I know who have either invoked religious exemption or straight up denied the jab or test) received private permission (that I'm not supposed to mention to others) to work from home. I never received any communication from HR that my religious exemption has been granted. I'm guessing this allows them to spin their numbers somehow in their favor.
HB
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
Our CEO said there were over 2,400 employees that joined a call that was to explain the new policy and to answer any questions. I think they’re going to be overwhelmed with submissions too.
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
I submitted mine yesterday. Not sure how long before they decide. Our deadline is 12/08 or you’re out 12/09.
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates Are Surviving Nearly All Court Challenges
It sounds like those saying it violates their constitutional rights are getting shot down more than the ones claiming religious exemptions.
Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates Are Surviving Nearly All Court Challenges
With limited exceptions, judges uphold requirements that government workers, public-university students and contractors get shots
Oct. 22, 2021 8:05 am ET
A range of people—from nurses to firefighters to students—have filed lawsuits objecting to the mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations imposed by states and cities, claiming the policies infringe on their constitutional rights.
Nearly every legal challenge has failed so far.
With limited exceptions involving religious objectors, judges have overwhelmingly upheld orders in numerous states that require health workers, public employees, state university students and government contractors to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 as a condition of employment. These rulings have allowed states to fire workers who refuse immunization.
“What we’re seeing are courts finding that mandates are lawful and constitutional,” said Jennifer Piatt, a deputy director with the Network for Public Health Law, a national nonprofit group based in Minnesota that promotes public health laws and has kept track of the litigation.
More than 20 states and dozens of cities have adopted —mostly through executive orders and legislation—to control the spread of Covid-19. The legal basis for the orders largely stems from a Supreme Court ruling from a century ago upholding a vaccine mandate after an outbreak of smallpox in Massachusetts. The court acknowledged in that case that states have broad powers to combat significant public-health challenges.
In at least 17 lawsuits, judges appointed by both Democrats and Republicans have refused to block vaccine mandates.
A federal appeals court ruled on Oct. 15 that Maine can enforce its vaccination requirement for healthcare workers. The First U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Tuesday that Gov. Janet Mills had no choice but to mandate that healthcare workers be vaccinated to curb transmission of the Delta variant.
In denying an injunction sought by a group of medical workers, the opinion noted that the state resorted to tougher measures after its carrot approach—offering fishing licenses, sweepstakes prize money and other incentives to Mainers who got their first dose—failed to persuade enough people to get their shots.
In Massachusetts, a federal judge on Oct. 15 refused to halt Gov. Charlie Baker’s requirement that all of the state’s executive-branch employees show proof of vaccination as a condition of employment.
A union representing four correction officers had insisted that the mandate unconstitutionally violated the terms of their collective-bargaining agreement. In rejecting that claim, U.S. District Judge Timothy Hillman wrote that Mr. Baker’s order was a “reasonable and appropriate way to advance the significant goal of stopping the spread of Covid-19 in the state prison system.”
In recent days, multiple judges have rejected efforts to stop Oregon Gov. Kate Brown from requiring state employees, teachers, school staff and medical workers to be vaccinated. In one case, a group of paramedics, teachers, nurses and other plaintiffs said they had a fundamental right not to be “coerced by the State of Oregon to be injected with an experimental medication.”
U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon’s opinion disputed the plaintiffs’ characterization of the policy as a forced medical experiment, stating that the mRNA vaccines developed to fight Covid-19 had undergone significant clinical trials and safety evaluation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Are vaccine mandates the best way to protect Americans? Why or why not? Join the conversation below.
“The court accepts, however, that certain plaintiffs face a difficult decision in having to take a vaccine they do not wish to take or find a new job, possibly in another state,” Judge Simon wrote. But he said their concerns are outweighed by “the state’s interest in public health and welfare.”
For more than a century, court rulings have recognized the authority of states to establish mandatory-vaccination programs. The most influential precedent cited by judges in their rulings is the 1905 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Jacobson v. Massachusetts, dealing with a Lutheran pastor’s objection to a smallpox-vaccination requirement.
“Jacobson established that there is no fundamental right to refuse vaccination,” wrote U.S. District Judge Ann Aiken in an Oct. 19 opinion also upholding Oregon’s mandates.
As judges have upheld the mandates, more states and cities have imposed new requirements. This week, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said all municipal workers must get vaccinated against Covid-19, meaning some 46,000 city workers need to get their first shot by Oct. 29 or potentially lose their jobs.
Less settled is the authority of the federal government to set vaccine rules in the private sector. The Biden administration is finalizing Occupational Safety and Health Administration emergency regulations directing large companies to require their workforce to get inoculated. Critics of the policy have questioned whether the president’s vaccine mandate goes beyond the federal government’s constitutional power to regulate interstate commerce.
At a Thursday town hall in Baltimore hosted by CNN, President Biden said he waited to impose vaccine requirements at the federal level but ultimately relented to drive up the vaccination rate.
“I waited until July to talk about mandating, because I tried everything else possible,” he said.
And it is also unclear how much leeway states have to impose health orders against religious objections. During the pandemic, courts have been more likely to block measures perceived to violate the First Amendment right to free exercise of religion.
Last week a federal judge, for example, ruled that the New York State Department of Health couldn’t let hospital and nursing-home workers opt out of a vaccine mandate for medical reasons while at the same time refusing to accommodate religious objectors.
Some litigants have tried out more unusual arguments. A lawsuit against the University of Pennsylvania Health System claims that requiring workers to disclose whether they have gotten the shots is compelled political speech deserving the protection of the First Amendment.
Bruce L. Castor Jr. , a former Montgomery County district attorney in Pennsylvania who represents the plaintiffs in that case, said lower-court judges were motivated, at least in part, by fear when they rejected the lawsuits against vaccine mandates.
“I don’t think any individual federal district court judge wants to run the risk that their ruling ends up getting blamed for spreading disease,” said Mr. Castor, who is best known for defending former President Trump in this year’s impeachment trial.
Mr. Castor said he and other opponents of the mandate are hoping that the federal courts of appeals give more weight to individual liberties when reviewing lower court rulings.
It sounds like those saying it violates their constitutional rights are getting shot down more than the ones claiming religious exemptions.
Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates Are Surviving Nearly All Court Challenges
With limited exceptions, judges uphold requirements that government workers, public-university students and contractors get shots
Oct. 22, 2021 8:05 am ET
A range of people—from nurses to firefighters to students—have filed lawsuits objecting to the mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations imposed by states and cities, claiming the policies infringe on their constitutional rights.
Nearly every legal challenge has failed so far.
With limited exceptions involving religious objectors, judges have overwhelmingly upheld orders in numerous states that require health workers, public employees, state university students and government contractors to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 as a condition of employment. These rulings have allowed states to fire workers who refuse immunization.
“What we’re seeing are courts finding that mandates are lawful and constitutional,” said Jennifer Piatt, a deputy director with the Network for Public Health Law, a national nonprofit group based in Minnesota that promotes public health laws and has kept track of the litigation.
More than 20 states and dozens of cities have adopted —mostly through executive orders and legislation—to control the spread of Covid-19. The legal basis for the orders largely stems from a Supreme Court ruling from a century ago upholding a vaccine mandate after an outbreak of smallpox in Massachusetts. The court acknowledged in that case that states have broad powers to combat significant public-health challenges.
In at least 17 lawsuits, judges appointed by both Democrats and Republicans have refused to block vaccine mandates.
A federal appeals court ruled on Oct. 15 that Maine can enforce its vaccination requirement for healthcare workers. The First U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Tuesday that Gov. Janet Mills had no choice but to mandate that healthcare workers be vaccinated to curb transmission of the Delta variant.
In denying an injunction sought by a group of medical workers, the opinion noted that the state resorted to tougher measures after its carrot approach—offering fishing licenses, sweepstakes prize money and other incentives to Mainers who got their first dose—failed to persuade enough people to get their shots.
In Massachusetts, a federal judge on Oct. 15 refused to halt Gov. Charlie Baker’s requirement that all of the state’s executive-branch employees show proof of vaccination as a condition of employment.
A union representing four correction officers had insisted that the mandate unconstitutionally violated the terms of their collective-bargaining agreement. In rejecting that claim, U.S. District Judge Timothy Hillman wrote that Mr. Baker’s order was a “reasonable and appropriate way to advance the significant goal of stopping the spread of Covid-19 in the state prison system.”
In recent days, multiple judges have rejected efforts to stop Oregon Gov. Kate Brown from requiring state employees, teachers, school staff and medical workers to be vaccinated. In one case, a group of paramedics, teachers, nurses and other plaintiffs said they had a fundamental right not to be “coerced by the State of Oregon to be injected with an experimental medication.”
U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon’s opinion disputed the plaintiffs’ characterization of the policy as a forced medical experiment, stating that the mRNA vaccines developed to fight Covid-19 had undergone significant clinical trials and safety evaluation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
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“The court accepts, however, that certain plaintiffs face a difficult decision in having to take a vaccine they do not wish to take or find a new job, possibly in another state,” Judge Simon wrote. But he said their concerns are outweighed by “the state’s interest in public health and welfare.”
For more than a century, court rulings have recognized the authority of states to establish mandatory-vaccination programs. The most influential precedent cited by judges in their rulings is the 1905 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Jacobson v. Massachusetts, dealing with a Lutheran pastor’s objection to a smallpox-vaccination requirement.
“Jacobson established that there is no fundamental right to refuse vaccination,” wrote U.S. District Judge Ann Aiken in an Oct. 19 opinion also upholding Oregon’s mandates.
As judges have upheld the mandates, more states and cities have imposed new requirements. This week, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said all municipal workers must get vaccinated against Covid-19, meaning some 46,000 city workers need to get their first shot by Oct. 29 or potentially lose their jobs.
Less settled is the authority of the federal government to set vaccine rules in the private sector. The Biden administration is finalizing Occupational Safety and Health Administration emergency regulations directing large companies to require their workforce to get inoculated. Critics of the policy have questioned whether the president’s vaccine mandate goes beyond the federal government’s constitutional power to regulate interstate commerce.
At a Thursday town hall in Baltimore hosted by CNN, President Biden said he waited to impose vaccine requirements at the federal level but ultimately relented to drive up the vaccination rate.
“I waited until July to talk about mandating, because I tried everything else possible,” he said.
And it is also unclear how much leeway states have to impose health orders against religious objections. During the pandemic, courts have been more likely to block measures perceived to violate the First Amendment right to free exercise of religion.
Last week a federal judge, for example, ruled that the New York State Department of Health couldn’t let hospital and nursing-home workers opt out of a vaccine mandate for medical reasons while at the same time refusing to accommodate religious objectors.
Some litigants have tried out more unusual arguments. A lawsuit against the University of Pennsylvania Health System claims that requiring workers to disclose whether they have gotten the shots is compelled political speech deserving the protection of the First Amendment.
Bruce L. Castor Jr. , a former Montgomery County district attorney in Pennsylvania who represents the plaintiffs in that case, said lower-court judges were motivated, at least in part, by fear when they rejected the lawsuits against vaccine mandates.
“I don’t think any individual federal district court judge wants to run the risk that their ruling ends up getting blamed for spreading disease,” said Mr. Castor, who is best known for defending former President Trump in this year’s impeachment trial.
Mr. Castor said he and other opponents of the mandate are hoping that the federal courts of appeals give more weight to individual liberties when reviewing lower court rulings.
Notice, the courts have said that people can be fired. One rumor going around is that the companies will not be firing them but placing them on some leave thing so you can't work or have your benefits but weren't fired so you can get unemployment. Not sure if such a limbo exists but that's the rumor. Not sure if that could be fought in court if the company leaved you hanging in limbo. Maybe someone with HR experience can address this here.
33dInd
Veteran Member
They are disallowing unemployment
That’s by design to keep the horrendous termination numbers from public eye
Can’t have a 5.2% unemployment rate jump to 20 % or higher
they have gamed this out
State unemployment offices are being told not to report terminations for insubordination
That’s by design to keep the horrendous termination numbers from public eye
Can’t have a 5.2% unemployment rate jump to 20 % or higher
they have gamed this out
State unemployment offices are being told not to report terminations for insubordination
Grumphau
Veteran Member
Update: received news that my exemption request has been approved on a temporary basis, meaning they can change their mind at any time and fill my job with somebody else.
I suppose they could always have done that, but now being unvaxxed is a new reason they can pursue if they want
I suppose they could always have done that, but now being unvaxxed is a new reason they can pursue if they want
xtreme_right
Veteran Member
It’s bad enough we have to jump through these hoops. I foolishly thought there were only 2 scenarios, 1) approved and keep your job or 2) denied and walked out. Who would have thought they’d keep you on only until they can find someone vaccinated to replace you.
I just did mine, don't put a bunch of shit in there they can use as ammo against you, grill you on.
You can find religion anytime you want, so long as its sincere and they better believe its sincere!
This whole thing is bullshit!
On the pos side, there's millions of new Christians now
You can find religion anytime you want, so long as its sincere and they better believe its sincere!
This whole thing is bullshit!
On the pos side, there's millions of new Christians now
DH got a temporary basis one like Grumphau. They are refusing to let him on any premises. Eventually he needs to build something. So far they are refusing to consider coming in and working say 7pm to midnight or some other off hours.
Remember the vaccinated have to be protected from the unvaxxed. The vaccine works so well.
Remember the vaccinated have to be protected from the unvaxxed. The vaccine works so well.
Grumphau
Veteran Member
It's hard to say. I'm not even sure how "temporary" mine is. Being on "temp" forever is a situation I am used to from previous jobs though lol.
Grumphau
Veteran Member
So talked with the wife. I'll be taking early initiative to look for a new job as this one will likely become increasingly hostile from upper management. This will likely result in relocation, which we have been talking about for some time now.
Anybody have leads on States for unvaxxed workers? Texas, Idaho, Florida?
Anybody have leads on States for unvaxxed workers? Texas, Idaho, Florida?