SC Senator Proposes Bill to Eliminate Religious Exemptions for Measles Vaccine

Feb 7, 2026, 2:49 AM

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South Carolina State Senator Margie Bright Matthews, a Democrat from Colleton, has introduced a bill that seeks to eliminate religious exemptions for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine for children attending public schools.

The bill's introduction comes at a critical time, as South Carolina is grappling with one of the country’s worst measles outbreaks, reporting a total of 920 cases concentrated in the Upstate and Midlands regions. The state has witnessed a disturbing trend of declining vaccination rates, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing skepticism regarding vaccine safety.

Critics of the bill, including South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, have voiced strong opposition, arguing that it undermines religious freedom rights. Wilson stated, "This bill goes too far. Since 2020, we've seen a concerted push to curtail personal liberty in the name of health and safety." He emphasized the importance of individual conscience and parental rights in making health decisions for their children.

The proposed legislation has been referred to the Senate Medical Affairs Committee for further consideration.

Context of the Bill

The backdrop for Matthews' proposal is a growing national concern over vaccination rates. Recent studies indicate that childhood vaccination rates have declined due to a rise in non-medical exemptions, which includes religious reasons. In fact, the share of children claiming exemptions from one or more vaccinations rose to 3.6% in the 2024-2025 school year, the highest national exemption rate recorded.

Many states have seen similar legislative proposals aimed at altering or expanding vaccine exemption policies. For instance, states like New York and California have recently passed laws eliminating religious exemptions amidst rising public health concerns over measles outbreaks.

Public opinion on vaccination requirements remains largely supportive, with approximately 81% of parents favoring mandatory vaccinations for school entry, according to recent polling. This suggests that while there is a vocal minority advocating for personal belief exemptions, a significant portion of the population recognizes the importance of vaccinations in safeguarding public health.

Implications of the Proposed Legislation

If successful, Matthews' bill could lead to increased vaccination rates among school-aged children in South Carolina, thereby reducing the risk of further outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that at least 95% of the population be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity against measles, which is highly contagious.

The introduction of this bill also reflects a broader national trend where lawmakers are grappling with vaccine policies in the wake of misinformation and political debates surrounding public health interventions.

As the legislation moves forward, it will be essential to monitor its progress and the public's response, particularly in a state where personal liberties and religious freedoms are often prioritized.

In summary, Senator Margie Bright Matthews' proposal to end religious exemptions for the measles vaccine highlights the tension between public health initiatives and individual rights. As South Carolina continues to face a significant measles outbreak, the bill aims to bolster vaccination rates and protect vulnerable populations from preventable diseases.

The fate of the bill now lies in the hands of the Senate Medical Affairs Committee, where further discussions and potential revisions will shape its future.

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