Monroe Review

State Representative James DeSana, a Republican from Carleton, introduced a new bill aimed at preventing discrimination based on vaccination status in Michigan. The proposed legislation seeks to protect individual liberty and parental rights by prohibiting such discrimination in employment, education, and access to public services.

The bill intends to ensure that Michigan residents are not denied employment, healthcare, education, or access to public services due to their personal medical decisions. By classifying vaccination status as a protected characteristic, the measure emphasizes the importance of bodily autonomy and informed consent across all areas of public life.

“No one should have to choose between their job and a medical decision,” stated DeSana. “Every Michigander deserves the freedom to make personal health choices without being punished or excluded. This effort is about restoring balance, protecting privacy, and making sure individuals remain in charge of their own medical decisions.”

Key elements of the proposal include prohibiting discrimination by state and local governments, employers, and public institutions—such as schools and colleges—based on vaccination status or lack of an "immunity passport." It also aims to prevent blanket vaccine mandates as conditions for employment or public participation unless specific medically necessary situations arise.

Furthermore, the bill affirms parental rights to decline vaccines for their children based on personal, religious, or philosophical beliefs without facing exclusion or retaliation. It also allows limited exemptions for healthcare providers and federally regulated entities where vaccine requirements might be necessary due to funding rules or risk of disease transmission.

“It is essential for Michigan to keep defending individual rights,” added DeSana. “This proposal ensures that Michigan continues to protect people from unfair treatment based solely on their health choices. It’s time to make it clear that medical freedom is not negotiable.”