GRACE Act

This bill would cut off federal education money to any public school system that requires vaccines but does not offer a religious exemption. It says schools must let a student, parent, or employee refuse a vaccine if it goes against their sincere religious beliefs—and they cannot demand proof or paperwork to back up that claim.

It covers K–12 schools and school districts statewide and locally. It applies to enrollment, attending school, playing sports or other activities, and even working for the school system. A “child” is defined as anyone under 18.

• Who is affected: State and local K–12 schools, school districts, students, parents, and school employees.
• What changes: To keep federal education funds, schools with vaccine rules must allow religious opt-outs without requiring any documentation.
• When: Would take effect if enacted into law; no special start date is listed in the text.