Parents group files lawsuit against California over school vaccine mandates and removal of religious exemptions

California Governor Gavin Newsom, along with the state legislature, eliminated religious exemptions for mandatory school vaccines through Senate Bill 277 (SB277). This move prompted a group of parents to file a federal lawsuit backed by a faith-based organization. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of SB277, which permits only medical exemptions and allows exemptions only for those who participate in an individualized education program or are unhoused. The group argues that SB277 encroaches on parents' constitutional rights, and their cause has garnered support on social media.

Risk level: Low

Recommendation: While conversations about this lawsuit are unlikely to arise in a clinical setting, news coverage about this lawsuit may provide a platform for vaccine opponents. This alert is provided for informational purposes for doctors and other health care providers in California.