11-02-2025
Proposed bill seeks to eliminate COVID-19 vaccine, gene therapy mandates in public schools
ST. LOUIS- The Missouri Education Senate committee revisited a proposed bill on Feb. 3 that looks to remove COVID-19 and gene therapy mandates in public schools, including higher education, at the start of the 2025-2026 academic year.
Introduced by State Senator Nick Schroer, SB222 prevents public institutions from authorizing direct vaccinations, such as COVID-19 or gene therapy, to employees and students. SB222 allows students and employees to attend public events, premises or facilities without any requirements from their respective institutions.
SB222 also states that vaccinations should not bar employees from employment or students from acceptance into schools.
It does, however, imply that COVID-19 vaccinations cannot be given without the consent of an employee, student (if of age) or parent/guardian (for students underage).
According to the bill, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as well as the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development will be required to investigate violations against the act.
The bill's language also states that students, parents/guardians or school employees can bring civil action against any violators of SB222, which can include a public school, higher-educated institution or school employee.
Instructors who are believed to violate SB222 face consequences, such as possible suspension or revocation of their licenses.
School districts, as well as higher educational institutions, who are believed to violate SB222 are not 'entitled to receive state aid or any other revenues of the state' until those places become compliant with the act, the bill summary states.
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