Bill > HB1223

This bill provides comprehensive conscience exemptions from certain medical treatments, specifically vaccinations, in South Dakota. The bill defines key terms like "conscience" as an individual's inner conviction about right and wrong, and "vaccination" as a treatment approved by the FDA. It establishes that individuals have the right to be exempt from vaccination mandates if receiving the vaccine violates their conscience, which can be declared orally or in writing. The bill prohibits any disciplinary action against individuals who decline vaccinations, prevents organizations from refusing services or access to individuals based on their vaccination status, and requires that entities inform individuals of their conscience exemption rights before mandating vaccinations. Additionally, the bill allows individuals to pursue civil action with potential threefold damages for violations of these protections. However, the bill includes several important exceptions, such as exemptions for certain healthcare facilities, school immunization requirements, court-ordered treatments, and military service, ensuring that the conscience exemption does not compromise critical healthcare and safety protocols in specific contexts.

Health and Social Services

https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/26060