WV Judge Shields Faith-Based Vaccine Opt-Outs

West Virginia officials have suspended a school vaccination mandate following a judge's ruling that parents can claim religious beliefs to exempt their children from required immunizations. Judge Michael Froble issued a permanent injunction, stating that families objecting on religious grounds can have their children attend school and participate in extracurricular activities.

The state Board of Education has temporarily suspended its policy that barred religious exemptions, a move that directly contradicts a previous executive order. This suspension is in effect while the state appeals the ruling to the West Virginia Supreme Court. Governor Morrisey expressed strong support for the decision, calling it a win for families asserting their faith.

The lawsuit, initiated by parents like Miranda Guzman, challenged the state's attempt to disallow religious exemptions. The judge ruled that a policy barring these exemptions violated a state law protecting religious freedom. This decision impacts hundreds of families who had sought or will seek religious exemptions, with the judge noting minimal impact on overall vaccination rates.