RFK Jr. Allies Target States to Overturn Vaccine Mandates for Schools

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by Christina Jewett

February 13, 2026

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RFK Jr.'s allies are leading a new effort to overturn state laws requiring vaccines for schoolchildren, targeting measles, polio, and other preventable diseases. This initiative, part of the Medical Freedom Act Coalition, aims to eliminate or severely limit vaccine mandates in states across the U.S., with bills already introduced in at least nine states. Proponents argue that these efforts could weaken public health infrastructure, potentially leading to more disease outbreaks. Historically, mandatory vaccines have been a cornerstone of preventing infectious diseases, with most states requiring immunizations for school entry, though exemptions exist. The coalition's strategy focuses on "bursting the dam" of vaccine mandates by pushing legislation in states where there is political traction, such as New Hampshire, Georgia, Iowa, and Idaho. Leslie Manookian, a leader in this movement, emphasizes the importance of state-level action to challenge existing medical mandates. Public health experts and vaccine advocates warn that these efforts could undermine decades of progress in reducing preventable diseases. They argue that rolling back vaccine requirements would leave communities vulnerable to outbreaks like measles, which have already resurged in some areas due to declining vaccination rates. This push comes amid growing skepticism toward vaccines, influenced by figures like RFK Jr., who has long opposed mandated immunizations. The significance of this movement lies in its potential impact on public health policies and disease control. If successful, it could set a dangerous precedent for other states, further eroding confidence in vaccines and putting children at risk. The debate over vaccine mandates highlights the tension between individual freedoms and collective health, making it a critical issue for readers interested in public health, education, and policy.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/13/2026