Analysis: Edwards Stays With Vaccine Plan Despite Opposition

AP News ^ | 12/12 | Melinda Deslatte

[nickcarraway]

An outpouring of legislative opposition and a likely threat of litigation aren’t changing Gov. John Bel Edwards’ mind about requiring some Louisiana students to get the COVID-19 vaccine during the next school year or file a written opt-out form.

The Democratic governor is facing increasing pushback to his response to the coronavirus outbreak — particularly on issues involving children — as the pandemic nears its two-year mark. Most of the objections and criticism are coming from Republicans, but the student immunization plan also has drawn opposition from some lawmakers within Edwards’ own party.

Edwards intends to add the COVID-19 vaccine to the state’s immunization schedule for K-12 schools and colleges for the 2022-23 school year — with broad exemptions for parents and students to opt out by submitting a written objection. Already, many of Louisiana’s colleges have begun requiring the vaccine or an exemption filing.

[BenLurkin]

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