S. 492: CONSCIENCE Act of 2023

This bill generally prohibits state and local governmental COVID-19 vaccine mandates that do not provide religious exemptions.

Specifically, the bill prohibits state and local governments from establishing COVID-19 vaccine mandates that (1) place a substantial burden on the religious exercise of an individual or entity; (2) do not treat a religious exercise or condition the same as a nonreligious exercise or condition; or (3) exclude or unreasonably limit religious exemptions. An individual's refusal to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, or an entity's refusal to institute COVID-19 vaccine requirements, on the basis of a sincerely held religious belief is considered to be religious exercise.

The bill establishes a private right of action and authorizes the federal government to bring civil actions for violations.

Written by the Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress.