9/1/21 - Update: Judge blocks Western Michigan’s vaccine mandate for athletes

Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 7:46 AM

WMU wants athletes to be vaccinates but members of the women's soccer team sue, and a judge agrees.

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A judge has blocked Western Michigan University from enforcing a COVID-19 vaccine requirement against four female soccer players who sued, ruling they are likely to prevail on claims it violates their religious rights.

U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney in Grand Rapids issued the temporary restraining order Tuesday, the school’s deadline for athletes to get an initial shot or be unable to compete.

In a separate case, he denied a request to block Michigan State University’s broader vaccine mandate for students and employees. An employee who had COVID-19 last year said she should not have to be vaccinated.

More from Local

01/22/25 - Bitter Cold Causes Massive Problems

Storm warnings are no longer in effect for most of the area, but that doesn't mean the problems are gone.
01/17/25 - Money Saving Tips When Arctic Temps Hit West Michigan

Bitter cold temperatures means a greater demand for heat. Consumers Energy is providing some tips to keep those bills from biting our wallets.
01/17/25 - Multiple Events Around West MI Will Honor Martin Luther King.

Various events around the state will commemorate the slain civil rights leader on this national holiday.
8/15/24 - Groundbreaking For New Children's Rehab Hospital

Ground breaking is taking place today for a state-of-the-art, freestanding children’s rehabilitation hospital dedicated to helping kids achieve the best possible outcome through compassionate collaboration, innovation and interdisciplinary care.