Religious Objections Stand in Path of Mask, Vaccine Mandates

The Covid-19 crisis has largely affirmed the power government officials have to set restrictions to protect public health in almost all respects except one: religion.

The Supreme Court knocked down state constraints on indoor worship services and blocked strict limits on the number of people who can attend them in rulings that could forever change the scope of public health authority and public health law.

Religious challenges to public health measures are now shifting from restrictions on gatherings to mask and vaccine mandates at a time when new guidance and requirements from the federal government are strengthening such measures. ...