But Muh Freedumb!! SC State Senator's Bill Would Make Measles Vax Mandatory For All Students, Dump Religious Exemptions
A South Carolina senator has introduced a bill that would increase immunization requirements for students in response to the escalating measles outbreak affecting communities across the state. State Sen. Margie Bright Matthews introduced the bill as an update to state law to require documented measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination for school and college attendance. The bill would also remove the religious exemption for the MMR vaccine, while preserving legitimate medical exemptions.
“Right now, South Carolina is facing one of the most serious measles outbreaks in decades,” Sen. Margie Bright Matthews said. “Measles is not a harmless childhood illness; it is highly contagious and can lead to hospitalization and even death. This legislation is about protecting children, protecting classrooms, and protecting communities with clear, medically grounded standards.”
Under the proposed legislation, students attending public schools, child care facilities and public colleges and universities must show proof of MMR vaccination or a valid medical exemption. The bill also requires students receiving certain state-supported education scholarships to meet the same immunization standards. Temporary exemptions would remain available for short transition periods while records are obtained, but ongoing attendance will require compliance.
“When outbreaks spread through schools, the consequences are immediate: students are quarantined, classrooms are disrupted and families are put at risk,” Matthews said. “We have already seen hundreds of children excluded from school due to exposure. Strong vaccination standards help keep schools open and safe.” Matthews said the bill relies on guidance from public health authorities regarding immunity thresholds and outbreak control. She said the law is designed to reduce preventable illness while ensuring that medical exemptions remain fully protected.
EDIT
https://www.live5news.com/2026/02/07/south-carolina-senator-proposes-mandatory-measles-vaccines-students/
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