Lawmaker wants natural immunity to count like proof of vaccination

Posted at 2:40 p.m. on October 5, 2021

The Brillion News

MADISON – On Tuesday, October 5, state Representative Cody Horlacher, R-Mukwonago, began circulating a bill to ensure that natural immunity from a disease is protected in the State of Wisconsin.

With the increase in employer-mandated vaccinations, Horlacher said the state needs to protect natural immunity as a legitimate answer to vaccine and testing requirements.

His bill allows individuals to provide proof of a positive COVID-19 test or proof of antibodies for COVID-19 in order to comply with any employer-required COVID-19 vaccines or testing.

“We need to protect families’ right to their own healthcare decisions. Wisconsin is facing a labor shortage and these additional requirements only worsen the situation,” Horlacher said. “I am proud to support all options for workers. Many of my constituents have reached out to me worried about being able to keep their jobs, to support their families and communities. This is one way that we can ensure that individual freedom is protected.”

The bill is currently being circulated for co-sponsorship in the legislature.

According to the non-partisan Legislative Reference Bureau, if an employer requires an employee to provide proof of having received a vaccination against COVID-19, or to be regularly tested for COVID-19 as a condition of continued employment, in lieu of proof of vaccination or testing, proof of natural immunity – as evidenced by antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus – would count equally.