Republican lawmakers are pushing to defund universities that continue to mandate COVID-19 vaccinations, following President Donald Trump's executive order restricting federal funds to such institutions. This legislative effort, led by Reps. Mark Messmer and August Pfluger, underscores a broader push against what they perceive as governmental overreach in response to the pandemic. Trump's executive order argues that these mandates infringe on personal freedom, parental authority, and religious beliefs, particularly given the low risk of serious illness in young people. Despite the official end of the COVID-19 national emergency in April 2023, some universities in states like California, Georgia, and Pennsylvania still require vaccines and boosters as part of their campus policies. The proposed bill aims to restore individual liberties and prevent universities from imposing vaccination as a condition for education or employment.

Republican lawmakers, including Reps. Mark Messmer and August Pfluger, are introducing the No Vaccine Mandates in Higher Education Act to align with President Trump's executive order that prohibits federal funds for universities mandating COVID-19 vaccines.

The executive order criticizes these mandates for infringing on individual freedoms, parental authority, and religious beliefs, arguing that young people face minimal risks from COVID-19.

Despite the end of the national COVID-19 emergency in April 2023, some universities, especially in states like California, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, continue to enforce vaccine and booster requirements.

The bill intends to ensure that no federal funds are given to institutions that require COVID-19 vaccinations for students or staff as a condition for enrollment, employment, or receiving benefits.

During the pandemic, universities such as Columbia and Princeton enforced not only vaccination but also booster shots and regular PCR testing to maintain campus access and student progression.

Proponents of the bill argue that the pandemic led to excessive governmental and institutional mandates, and this legislation seeks to restore common sense and liberties to the American people.

A survey indicated that 15 schools nationwide still uphold their COVID-19 vaccine requirements, highlighting the ongoing debate over vaccination policies in higher education.