health
February 16, 2026
Iowa, New Hampshire Advance Bills To Curb Vaccine Mandates, Expand Medical Freedom
Iowa lawmakers on Thursday advanced the Iowa Medical Freedom Act to prohibit businesses, schools and government entities from requiring “medical intervention” — including vaccines and masks — as a condition of employment, services or access to facilities. The New Hampshire House on Thursday voted to remove the Hep B vaccine from the state’s list of required immunizations.
TL;DR
- Iowa lawmakers advanced House File 2368, the Iowa Medical Freedom Act, which would prohibit businesses, schools, and government entities from requiring medical interventions like vaccines and masks.
- State Rep. Samantha Fett stated the bill protects conscience rights, religious liberty, bodily autonomy, and privacy, emphasizing that employers and agencies are not doctors.
- Critics, including the Iowa Public Health Association, warned that the bill could lead to more outbreaks and school disruptions.
- Iowa lawmakers also advanced House File 2171, which would eliminate state immunization requirements for K-12 school attendance, allowing parents to decide on their children's medical care.
- In New Hampshire, House Bill 1811 would make all childhood vaccinations voluntary for public schools and daycares.
- The New Hampshire House voted to remove the hepatitis B vaccine from the state's required immunization list, with supporters citing updated federal recommendations and reduced infant risk.
- House Bill 1584 in New Hampshire would simplify religious exemptions for school vaccine requirements.
- Opponents in both states argue that these measures could weaken public health protections and lead to decreased vaccination rates.
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