SB15 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Arthur OrrSenator

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Gerald H. AllenWill BarfootTom ButlerDonnie ChesteenChris ElliottSam GivhanGarlan GudgerAndrew JonesSteve LivingstonTim MelsonDan RobertsDavid SessionsShay ShelnuttApril WeaverJack W. Williams

Session

Second Special Session 2021

Title

Vaccine mandates, prohibited unless federally required, vaccine exemption for medical and religious reasons created, parental consent for minor to receive COVID-19 vaccine required

Summary

SB15 limits vaccine mandates and immunization documentation, requires parental consent for a minor to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, creates medical and religious exemptions, and lets individuals sue for violations.

What This Bill Does

The bill preserves the rule that vaccine passports or immunization documentation can only be used for public K-12 admission. It gives the Attorney General power to pursue civil actions to stop violations of that rule. It prohibits schools and other educational institutions from inquiring about a student’s vaccination status without parental consent, and it bans discrimination against people who refuse to provide immunization proof. It also creates a private right of action so individuals harmed by violations can seek legal remedies.

Who It Affects

• Students and their families: cannot be asked about vaccination status without parental consent; a minor’s COVID-19 vaccine would require parental consent; exemptions exist for medical and religious reasons.
• Educational institutions (schools and colleges): must not inquire about a student’s vaccination status without parental consent and must avoid discriminatory practices related to immunization status.
• Employers and other entities handling vaccination information: prohibited from discriminating against individuals who refuse to provide immunization proof.
• Individuals harmed by violations: may sue for damages or seek other legal relief; the Attorney General may sue to stop ongoing violations.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits vaccine passports or standardized documentation certifying immunization status, except when required for public K-12 school admission; authorizes the Attorney General to pursue civil actions to enjoin violations.
• Education-related entities may not inquire about a student’s vaccination status without parental consent.
• Prohibits discrimination against individuals who refuse to provide proof of immunization.
• Provides a private right of action for individuals injured by violations of the bill.
• Requires parental consent for a minor to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
• Creates medical and religious exemptions related to vaccination requirements.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Vaccinations