Hawaiian mothers unite against Bill HB 1118 threatening religious exemptions for vaccinations

A powerful wave of opposition surged through the Hawaii Legislature's public hearing on February 21, 2025, as numerous testimonies were presented against Bill HB 1118, which seeks to eliminate religious exemptions for vaccinations in schools. Single mothers, health advocates, and concerned citizens passionately voiced their fears that the bill infringes on personal freedoms and parental rights.

Wailani Gonzales, a single mother of two, articulated the financial and emotional toll the bill could impose on families, emphasizing the importance of parental choice in health decisions. "No amount of coercion, bribery, or blackmail can force someone to go against their deeply held religious convictions," she stated, warning that the bill could lead to mass unenrollment from public schools, further straining an already underfunded education system.

Karen NGO echoed these sentiments, sharing her own experience with her daughter, who has thrived without vaccinations. She argued that the bill would force families to choose between their religious beliefs and their children's education, a choice she deemed unacceptable. "I shouldn't have to sacrifice my convictions in order for my child to attend school," she declared.

The testimonies highlighted a broader concern about bodily autonomy and the right to make informed medical choices. Charisse Miguel Hamakua pointed out that the bill could lead to discrimination against families who choose not to vaccinate for religious reasons, while others like Tashina Lane and Daniella Hembal stressed the importance of recognizing natural immunity and the risks associated with vaccines.

As the hearing progressed, the overwhelming majority of testimonies opposed the bill, with many calling it a violation of constitutional rights. "Religious freedoms are a constitutional right, not a privilege," Anela Kealakehi asserted, sharing her own family's struggles with vaccine-related injuries.

The committee members were urged to consider the implications of the bill not only on individual families but also on the educational landscape of Hawaii. With over 1,200 testimonies against the bill, the message was clear: many residents are ready to fight for their rights and the future of their children’s education. The outcome of this legislative battle could have lasting effects on public health policy and parental rights in Hawaii.