H.R.79 - Freedom from Mandates Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 79, the "Freedom from Mandates Act," seeks to nullify Executive Orders 14042 and 14043, which pertain to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for federal contractors and employees. Additionally, it aims to prevent the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Health and Human Services from issuing rules mandating COVID-19 vaccinations or testing requirements for employees in general and healthcare settings. The bill addresses concerns regarding individual liberties and government overreach in public health matters.
The bill specifically targets the federal government's ability to enforce vaccine mandates on federal employees, contractors, and healthcare providers participating in Medicare and Medicaid. It aims to provide individuals with the freedom to choose whether or not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine without facing employment-related consequences.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to multiple committees for consideration.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 79 would eliminate the existing federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates for federal contractors and employees. It would also prevent future mandates from being implemented by the Department of Labor and the Department of Health and Human Services.
This could lead to changes in workplace safety protocols and potentially affect the rate of COVID-19 vaccination among employees in the affected sectors. The bill's impact would largely depend on how employers respond to the absence of federal mandates and whether they choose to implement their own vaccination policies.
It could also impact public health outcomes and the spread of COVID-19, depending on vaccination rates.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Individual Liberty: Protects individual choice regarding vaccination without fear of job loss.
- Reduced Government Overreach: Limits the scope of federal mandates in personal health decisions.
- Potential for Economic Benefit: May reduce labor shortages caused by vaccine mandates in certain sectors.
- Supports Personal Autonomy: Reinforces the principle of bodily autonomy and informed consent.
- Reduces Regulatory Burden: Eases compliance requirements for businesses and healthcare providers.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Public Health Risks: Could lead to lower vaccination rates and increased spread of COVID-19.
- Workplace Safety Concerns: May increase the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in workplaces, especially in healthcare settings.
- Undermines Public Health Authority: Limits the government's ability to respond to future pandemics effectively.
- Increased Healthcare Costs: Could lead to higher healthcare costs due to increased COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.
- Potential for Discrimination: May create an environment where unvaccinated individuals face discrimination or stigma.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the U.S. Constitution is complex. Proponents may argue it aligns with individual liberties and the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. They might also cite the First Amendment regarding freedom of conscience.
Opponents may argue that the bill infringes upon the federal government's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) and to provide for the general welfare. They might also argue that it undermines the government's ability to protect public health, which is a recognized government function.
The Supreme Court has historically recognized the government's power to enact public health regulations, but the extent of that power is subject to ongoing debate and judicial interpretation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).