In the first decision by a university to uphold a coronavirus vaccine mandate, a federal judge confirmed on Monday that Indiana University may require its students to vaccinate against the virus.
A lawyer for eight student plaintiffs argued that the vaccine requirement violated their right to bodily integrity and autonomy, and that coronavirus vaccines have only emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, and that it should be considered as part of the general range of vaccination schools. should not be considered. He vowed to appeal to the US Supreme Court if needed.
The lawyer, James Bopp Jr., said, “We have the government here forcing you to do something you strongly object to and attack your body.”
He said the appeal would be paid for by Frontline Doctors of America, a conservative organization pursuing an anti-vaccine agenda. Mr. Bopp of Terre Haute, Ind., is known for his legal advocacy promoting conservative causes.
Mr Bopp sued in June, after Indiana University announced last month that faculty, staff and students would be required to receive coronavirus vaccinations before coming to school this fall.
The university, which has its main campus in Bloomington, India, said that students who did not comply would have their class registration canceled and barred from campus activities.
The requirement allows exemptions only for religious objections, documentation of allergy to the vaccine, medical deferrals and virtual class attendance.
On Monday, Judge Damon R., of the US District Court for Northern Indiana. Litchie said he recognized the students’ interest in being denied unfair medical treatment, saying such a right should be weighed against the greater interest of the state.
“The Fourteenth Amendment allows Indiana University to pursue a fair and reasonable process of vaccination for its students, faculty, and staff in the legitimate interest of public health,” their decision also said, adding that the university had not issued any complaints against students who objected. An exception was made for
Universities across the country have taken different stances on the question of the need for coronavirus vaccines, with nearly 400 campuses mandating vaccines. Students on several campuses have sued or threatened.