Florida has become the first U.S. state to eliminate all vaccine mandates, according to Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, who announced the decision on Wednesday. The policy reversal extends to requirements for children attending schools, marking a significant shift in public health governance.
Ladapo condemned the previous mandates, stating, “Every last one of them is wrong and drips with disdain and slavery.” He emphasized individual autonomy over bodily decisions, declaring, “Your body is a gift from God. What you put into your body is because of your relationship with your body and your god.” He criticized government authority, adding, “Government does not have that right. They want you to believe they have that right. And unfortunately, they’ve been successful.”
The move has drawn sharp criticism from public health experts. Dr. Tina Tan, president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, warned it could lead to a “major drop in vaccination rates” and “multiple outbreaks of vaccine-preventable disease.” She highlighted risks to immunocompromised individuals and children, noting, “These kids are going to bring it home.” Federal data reveals declining vaccination rates for measles, diphtheria, and polio among U.S. kindergartners in the 2024-25 school year, coinciding with a surge in measles cases—the highest since 2000.
Supporters lauded the decision as a victory for “medical freedom.” Dr. Robert Malone praised Ladapo’s approach, calling it a “moment, a pulse of the American public.” Governor Ron DeSantis announced the creation of the Florida Make America Healthy Again Commission, chaired by First Lady Casey DeSantis and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, to promote parental choice in vaccination.
The policy faces legal hurdles, as state statutes currently require immunizations against seven diseases, with the Department of Health permitted only to add vaccines, not remove them. DeSantis acknowledged no discussions with lawmakers about further changes, leaving the future of the mandate repeal uncertain.