The Oklahoma Medical Freedom Act is a newly proposed legislation aimed at safeguarding individual rights regarding medical procedures, particularly in the context of COVID-19 vaccinations. The Act asserts that individuals have the right to refuse any medical treatment or vaccine without interference and guarantees their access to public accommodations and legal protections. It also emphasizes the ethical obligation of the state to prevent coercive medical mandates that undermine bodily autonomy and informed consent. The Act outlines findings that criticize past federal and state actions during the pandemic, highlighting the negative consequences faced by individuals who chose not to participate in vaccination programs.
Additionally, the Act provides specific protections for health care professionals, shielding them from disciplinary actions or licensure penalties for expressing dissent regarding medical mandates or advocating for patient rights. It establishes a cause of action for health care professionals who face retaliation for engaging in protected activities, allowing them to seek injunctive relief and damages. Furthermore, any regulatory actions against these professionals will undergo expedited judicial review, placing the burden of proof on the regulatory body to demonstrate that their actions were not related to the professionals' protected activities. The Act is declared to be of immediate necessity, taking effect upon passage and approval.