Parents challenge state’s denial of religious vaccine exemptions

Attorneys representing four mothers federally challenging California’s denial of religious-based exemptions to vaccination requirements for childrens’ admission to public schools filed briefs with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, setting the stage for oral arguments, it was announced Monday.

“Our First Amendment liberties must be protected with vigilance,” Murrieta-based Advocates for Faith & Freedom President Robert Tyler said about the case. “We are honored to take this fight to the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on behalf of our courageous clients.”

In March, U.S. District Judge Marilyn Huff in San Diego dismissed the plaintiffs’ civil rights lawsuit seeking an injunction against the state’s enforcement of Senate Bill 277 because of its failure to include a “personal belief ex