SB 159 - Beginning with the 2023-24 school or academic year, this act prohibits school districts, public schools, and institutions of higher education, as well as employees of such entities, from requiring any employee or student to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or gene therapy in order to be physically present at any events, premises, or facilities. A vaccine may not be required as a condition for employment or for acceptance as a student. Testing for COVID-19 may not be done without written consent of the school employee, student, or, for a minor student, by all parents or guardians. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development are required to investigate and report violations. Any employee who violates the provisions of the act shall be subject to a fine of up to $5,000, and any license held by the employee issued by a department of the state may be suspended or revoked. A student, parent, or school employee may bring a civil action for injunctive relief or damages, or both, for any physical, mental, or emotional injuries caused by a school district's, public school's, or school employee's violation of the act. This act is identical to provisions in HB 1130 (2023), to HB 1347 (2023), and to HB 1475 (2022). OLIVIA SHANNON