Vaccine mandates will have exemptions for medical reasons. The legal foundation for a medical waiver has been established with the current mask mandates. For example, the FAA mask mandate is based on the CDC’s latest federal regulation, which was published on January 29, 2021. The CDC policy is explained in an 11-page document which can be found on their website. On page 4 of the policy, including footnote #8, it lists exceptions to the mask mandate. Included in this list is “medical documentation by a licensed medical provider.” The proposed vaccine mandates will share many of the characteristics of the current mask mandate, including an exemption based on documentation from a medical provider. So far, there are only a few private employers with vaccine mandates, and they have contained medical exemptions. Unfortunately, no provision in the Constitution ensures access to your favorite restaurant, your job, travel, or a ball game. The reality is that the government and private entities do have the power to coerce anyone to get the vaccine. The only exception applies to people who can’t get the vaccine because of medical circumstances. You must possess legitimate documentation to be a member of the exception group. |