INFORMATION REGARDING THE RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION FOR THE VACCINE MANDATE

Even if you are not working as a state, school, or government employee, many workers in the private sector are also facing COVID-19 vaccine mandates from employers. Stand firm in your beliefs; the COVID cases, hospitalizations, and deaths will soon decrease across the nation this month as it has in the past, and the draconian restrictions and mandates will rightfully appear increasingly unjust and unnecessary.


Remember, we used to manage COVID restrictions and mandates by the metrics (deaths) in each of our 39 counties. Now it is a one-size-fits-all no matter the data or science.

Governor Inslee, unfortunately, set a terrible example for the state of Washington by crafting religious exemption criteria to be intentionally “as narrow as possible.” This does not mean, however, that each private employer in Washington is necessarily using the same criteria.


Given the tumultuous atmosphere, it may feel dizzying in terms of how to even begin to ask for a religious exemption from the vaccine mandate. FPIW is here to provide resources that are hopefully helpful as you navigate the exemption process.


Here are several great resources to help you navigate obtaining a religious exemption from the vaccine mandate. At the end of the day, both the Law and God is on your side if one can articulate a sincere religious belief:


Founding Freedoms Law Center

  • Includes sample forms and letters for employees and college students seeking religious exemption
  • Includes sample forms and letters for parents seeking mask mandate exemption for children

Alliance Defending Freedom

  • Includes information on why vaccine mandates are illegal, citing Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • Provides legal guidance for students seeking exemptions from vaccine mandates
  • Information for military members seeking religious exemption from the vaccine

First Liberty

  • Provides a free “Religious Liberty Protection Kit” so you know your rights on vaccine mandates

Pacific Justice Institute

  • Provides free resource for legal guidance on vaccine mandate

Florida Family Policy Council

  • FAQs regarding vaccine mandate
  • A handful of sample letters

Minnesota Family Council

  • Confused about why vaccine mandates are wrong? This guide helps clarify the issues.

We hope those resources may assist you. Already, we are hearing from folks who have answered the questions and have had their religious exemption approved. The next step then is to negotiate reasonable accommodations at work.


We are living in the midst of spiritual warfare – this can be spiritually, mentally, and physically draining. But remember that you are not alone in this fight—Christ is on our side and many, many Christians are fighting the good fight against tyranny. Jesus told us we would live through tribulation:


“I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” (John 16:33)


Jesus didn’t say we might encounter trouble – he assured us we would. Even with having the greatest faith, though, it may feel lonely at times when surrounded by radical, godless extremists trying to force their agenda on and control you.


Here, too, Jesus gives us comfort:


“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)


We belong to Jesus. Rest in him!

In His Service,

Mark Miloscia

Executive Director, FPIW


Family Policy Institute of Washington