HB21-1191: COVID-19 Immunization Nondiscrimination Act (CINDA)

• Prohibits employers and licensed health facilities from taking adverse action against employees or job applicants based on COVID-19 vaccination status, including refusal to hire, discharge, demotion, harassment, or discrimination in compensation and employment terms.

• Makes COVID-19 vaccines non-mandatory in Colorado; prohibits state requirement of vaccination and prevents government agencies, commercial businesses, and health insurers from discriminating against clients, patrons, or customers based on vaccination status.

• Allows aggrieved employees and individuals to file civil actions seeking injunctive relief, affirmative relief including back pay and reinstatement, and other equitable remedies for violations.

• Permits courts to award punitive damages and attorney fees and costs if violations involve malice, willful and wanton misconduct, or repeated violations demonstrated by clear and convincing evidence.

• Health facilities are prohibited from requiring COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of employment and the state department cannot mandate facility employees receive the vaccine.