A new legislative proposal in Minnesota is stirring up significant debate as House Bill 2815 seeks to prohibit local enforcement of federal vaccine passports. Introduced on March 26, 2025, by Representative Altendorf, the bill aims to assert state sovereignty and protect individual liberties against what proponents describe as overreach by the federal government.

At the heart of House Bill 2815 is a clear directive: no government entity in Minnesota, including its subdivisions and agents, will have the authority to enforce any form of vaccine passport or credential mandated by federal law or executive order. This move is framed as a defense of the Tenth Amendment, which advocates for states' rights, and aims to safeguard personal privacy and freedom.

The bill also introduces a civil cause of action for individuals who feel their rights have been violated under this new law. Those who enforce vaccine passports could face legal repercussions, including the potential for prevailing parties to recover attorney fees. Notably, the bill removes sovereign immunity as a defense for government entities, making it easier for individuals to seek redress.

While supporters hail the bill as a necessary step to protect personal freedoms, critics argue it undermines public health efforts and could lead to confusion during health crises. The bill's introduction has sparked discussions about the balance between individual rights and collective health responsibilities, with some lawmakers expressing concern over the implications for future public health initiatives.

As the bill moves to the Committee on Elections Finance and Government Operations, its fate remains uncertain. If passed, House Bill 2815 could set a precedent for how states navigate federal health directives, potentially influencing similar legislation across the country. The ongoing debates surrounding this bill highlight the contentious intersection of health policy, individual rights, and government authority in the current political landscape.