Holcomb Opposes COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates By Public Schools, Universities

Brandon Smith

Article origination IPBS-RJC

Gov. Eric Holcomb said he does not support public schools requiring a COVID-19 vaccination.

His comments come as Indiana University has been under fire from conservatives and government leaders for its decision to mandate the vaccine for students, faculty and staff returning to campus this fall.

Join the conversation and sign up for the Indiana Two-Way. Text "Indiana" to 73224. Your comments and questions in response to our weekly text help us find the answers you need on COVID-19 and other statewide issues.

Holcomb said he hopes public institutions follow his lead – he’s not requiring the COVID-19 vaccine for state employees.

“I do support private businesses making that call," Holcomb said. "But not public institutions.”

Holcomb said he still strongly encourages people to get the vaccine. Indiana ranks 36th in the country for the percentage of its population fully vaccinated.

Contact reporter Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

'Beat the Chef' contest encourages School 54 kids to cook healthy food

On the near east side of Indianapolis, Brookside School 54 students squared off in a competition against a chef on Thursday to see who could make the tastiest nutritious snack. It’s part of a partnership between the Indianapolis Public Schools district and insurance company Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to provide cooking and nutrition education.

Health / April 18, 2024

Advocates launch free contraceptive vending machine, hope to expand project statewide

Several organizations in Indiana launched a vending machine that provides free emergency contraception in response to growing concerns about access to reproductive care. The organizations plan to expand the project throughout the state.

Health / April 18, 2024

Racial and ethnic disparities in Indiana’s health care system persist

A new report released Thursday shows racial and ethnic disparities persist in health care access, quality, and outcomes across the nation, including in Indiana.