DeSantis Criticizes Florida House for Not Passing 'Medical Freedom' Bill

Governor says more opportunities exist to tackle vaccine exemption issue

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:08am

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the state's House of Representatives for failing to pass a bill that would have expanded vaccine exemptions for public K-12 students. The bill, which passed the Senate, would have created a new 'conscience' category for parents to opt out of immunizations. DeSantis praised the Senate President for getting the bill through the Senate and said there would be more 'opportunities' to address the issue.

Why it matters

The failed bill is part of a broader debate over vaccine mandates and parental rights in Florida. The state is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with the majority of cases in Collier County. Proponents of the bill argued it would protect parental freedoms, while opponents warned it could endanger public health.

The details

The bill (SB 1756), sponsored by Sen. Clay Yarborough, R-Jacksonville, would have expanded vaccine exemptions for public K-12 schools and created a new 'conscience' category for parents to opt out of immunizations. Parents' rights advocates heavily supported the measure, but pediatricians and health care practitioners deemed it irresponsible and warned of the dangers it could cause. The bill also would have required health care practitioners who administer vaccines to offer parents an alternative vaccine schedule and provide information about the benefits and risks of vaccines.

  • As of March 7, 2026, Florida has reported 132 measles cases this year, up from only 7 cases in 2025.
  • The legislative session ended on Friday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Ron DeSantis

The Governor of Florida who criticized the House for not passing the 'medical freedom' bill.

Ben Albritton

The Republican Senate President of Florida who successfully got the bill through the Senate.

Clay Yarborough

The Republican state senator from Jacksonville who sponsored the bill to expand vaccine exemptions.

Joseph Ladapo

The Florida Surgeon General who originally asked, along with DeSantis, to repeal all vaccine mandates in the state.

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What they’re saying

“It seems to me you're fumbling right on the goal line here. Punch it in for the touchdown and get it done. I know a lot of people in Florida really want to see these protections written into law.”

— Ron DeSantis, Governor

“That is a decision the Legislature will make, and we'll see.”

— Ben Albritton, Senate President

What’s next

The failed bill could make a comeback during budget talks, according to Senate President Albritton.

The takeaway

This debate over vaccine exemptions in Florida highlights the ongoing tensions between parental rights, public health concerns, and the role of government in regulating medical decisions. The outcome could have significant implications for the state's response to infectious disease outbreaks.