SB8 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tom ButlerSenator

Republican

Session

Second Special Session 2021

Title

Vaccines, prohibits an entity or individual from compelling another individual to receive a COVID-19 vaccine under certain circumstances

Summary

SB8 would bar anyone from forcing a person to receive a COVID-19 vaccine if they object for personal, religious, or medical reasons, and it imposes penalties for violations.

What This Bill Does

It prohibits any entity or individual from compelling a COVID-19 vaccination for someone who objects for personal conscience, religious belief, or medical reasons (including recovery from COVID-19). Violations carry civil penalties of $1,000 per violation. The bill defines COVID-19 in the context of public health emergencies and applies during such emergencies. It becomes effective immediately after passage and the governor's approval.

Who It Affects

• Individuals who object to vaccination for personal, religious, or medical reasons are protected from being forced to vaccinate.
• Entities or individuals who try to compel someone to receive a COVID-19 vaccine (such as employers or businesses) would face a $1,000 fine for each violation.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits compelling a COVID-19 vaccination for anyone who objects for personal conscience, religious belief, or medical reasons (including recovery from COVID-19).
• Imposes civil penalties of $1,000 for each violation.
• Provides definitions related to COVID-19 and the context of public health emergencies.
• Effective date: immediately upon passage and governor's approval.

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

Subjects

Health