AR HB1547

State entities, political subdivisions, and officials are prohibited from mandating or requiring COVID-19 vaccination, with the exception that state-owned or state-controlled medical facilities may offer positive incentives and may mandate vaccination only with Legislative Council approval.

COVID-19 vaccination cannot be a condition for education, employment, entry, services from the state, or obtaining licensure, certificates, or permits from state agencies.

State, state agencies, political subdivisions, and officials are prohibited from coercing, discriminating against, or withholding employment benefits (salary, wage increases, insurance, career advancement) from individuals who refuse COVID-19 vaccination.

The Department of Health must maintain and publicly post information about the safety and efficacy of FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines, including risk of harm data in an understandable format.

The act expires two years from FDA approval of the COVID-19 vaccine and includes a conditional provision allowing legislative committees to recommend limited or complete suspension of restrictions if a more virulent strain impacts children during that period.