KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A federal appeals court has ruled in favor of Western Michigan University athletes who cited religious reasons for not getting the COVID-19 vaccine in order to play sports.
At least 16 athletes, mostly women previously sought an exemption from the school, but were denied. It was a 3-0 decision by the court, which said the athletes are likely to come out on top of their constitutional argument if WMU pursues a full-fledged appeal.
The university argued that its vaccination policy is neutral toward religion. The school said athletes who seek a religious exemption are barred from competing but still are members of a team and can keep their scholarships. The athletes, from six different sports, said they believe the Bible and their faith preclude them from getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Comments