State Representative Gina Johnsen has introduced new legislation aimed at limiting state agencies from imposing additional requirements on parents seeking vaccine exemptions for their children in Michigan. The proposed House Bills 5634 and 5635, co-sponsored by Representative Donni Steele, seek to ensure that state departments operate within the boundaries set by current law and do not create extra conditions or administrative hurdles beyond what is established in statute. Similar bills, Senate Bills 797 and 798, have been put forward in the Senate by Senators Ruth Johnson and Lana Theis.
The legislative effort follows concerns that administrative rulemaking could be used to introduce steps not authorized by existing law, which could restrict rights already protected under current statutes.
“Michigan clearly allows for physician-certified medical exemptions and written religious or philosophical objections submitted by a parent or guardian,” said Johnsen. “Those protections are in statute. They should not be weakened or redefined by unelected bureaucrats.”
Johnsen emphasized that the intent of the bills is to keep clear distinctions between legislative authority and administrative enforcement.
“Parents’ rights cannot be narrowed by bureaucratic reinterpretation; only the Legislature can change the law,” Johnsen said. “Parents deserve clarity and confidence that their rights will not be eroded behind closed doors.”
House Bills 5634 and 5635 as well as Senate Bills 797 and 798 have been sent to their respective committees for further review.
Johnsen represents Michigan’s 78th House District, covering parts of Kent, Ionia, Barry, and Eaton counties according to her official website. She has participated in faith-based initiatives, healthcare advocacy, and community leadership efforts throughout her career (source). Her background includes more than two decades of experience in the healthcare industry as well as a bachelor’s degree in economics and international studies from Wellesley College (source). Johnsen has also served on several committees including Veterans and Families, Judiciary, Natural Resources, and Tourism (source).
