Florida Considers Ending All Vaccine Mandates

Florida may become the first state in the U.S. to eliminate all vaccine requirements, including those for schoolchildren, according to State Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo. Speaking at a recent news conference, Ladapo said some vaccine mandates could be repealed by the health department, while others would require legislative action. He called such mandates “wrong” and “immoral,” arguing that vaccination decisions should remain personal.

Currently, all 50 states and Washington, D.C., require certain immunizations for school attendance, though most allow exemptions for religious or personal reasons. Health experts stress that vaccines have been critical in preventing outbreaks and protecting public health, while opponents argue mandates infringe on individual rights.

The discussion comes amid declining vaccination rates among U.S. kindergarteners and a rise in measles cases across several states. A recent survey found that 73% of Americans still support school vaccine requirements, underscoring the national divide on this issue.

08-09-2025