Unvaccinated US Law Prof Sues University Over Mask, Testing Mandates, Calls Rules 'Unlawful'

Zywicki has been advised by his doctors that he doesn't need the vaccine and can expose him to side effects that are opposed to what the CDC recommends.

Representational Image (Source: AFP)

New Delhi: A law professor sued George Mason University after the varsity asked unvaccinated employees to return back to work wearing masks and submit to COVID-19 testing. He stated that these reopening policies violate his constitutional rights. 

Todd Zywicki has been teaching at Antonin Scalia School of Law since 1998 the lawsuit told U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on Tuesday. 

According to a Reuters report, Zywicki tested positive for Covid-19 antibodies after contracting the virus last year, he has stated that the policy is "unmistakably coercive" and an "unlawful mandate" and places additional burdens on unvaccinated employees who come to the campus.

The report quoted the complaint, "compelling governmental interest in overriding Professor Zywicki’s personal autonomy and constitutional rights by forcing him, in essence, to either be vaccinated or to suffer adverse professional consequences". 

Zywicki has been advised by his doctors that taking the vaccine will expose him to a “heightened risk for adverse side effects" and due to the presence of the antibodies, he doesn't require to take the vaccine. Although, the CDC recommends that even those who have contracted COVID-19 get vaccinated.

The complaint said that George Mason University requires all its employees to get vaccinated and show the vaccination status or else face disciplinary actions like unpaid leave or even loss of employment. Zywicki had submitted an exemption based on his doctor's advice but was denied as the university doesn't accept that the vaccinated individuals are at par with those with Covid antibodies. 

Zywicki claims that wearing a mask will hinder his ability to teach his students whereas the social distancing protocols will make it impossible for him to attend social events or even hold office.