SE Illinois News

State Rep. Adam Niemerg (R-Teutopolis) is letting his 113th District constituents know their options on the vaccine front.

“Many of you have contacted me about your options to fight the COVID-19 vaccine mandates and your rights to object,” Niemerg posted on his web page. ”Your religious convictions, moral guidelines, and medical considerations must be respected and should be protected.”

As more vaccine mandates take hold across the country, NPR reports religious exemption cases being filed are on the rise.

Niemerg points out that though there isn't a specific form to claim religious exemption, he posted a generic form that could be used.

Niemerg advises those thinking of applying for the exemption to check with their employer about what is needed, as management typically determines if the filing is valid and may have specific requirements.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker recently garnered attention for signing Senate Bill 1169, which amends the Health Care Right of Conscience Act so it can't be used as a loophole to avoid following COVID mandates.

“This new law reduces the freedom of religion of the people of the State of Illinois and represents a direct attack on the history, heritage, and firmly held beliefs of people of every race, color, creed, and religious background,” Niemerg posted. “Calling this an overreach of government authority is an understatement.”

In response, Niemerg has filed House Bill 4239, also known as the Freedom Act, which seeks to establish “that it shall be unlawful for any person, public or private institution, or public official to discriminate against any person in any manner because of such person’s refusal to obtain, receive or accept a COVID-19 vaccination contrary to his or her belief.”