When Are Religious Objections 'Sincerely Held?'

As vaccine mandates begin to take effect, thousands of Americans are scrambling to get religion. For those who oppose vaccination, a "sincerely held religious belief" might be the only way to avoid getting the shot -- or losing their job. Online, one can find dozens of official-looking forms, letter templates, and tips on how to explain why your anti-vaccination beliefs are both sincere and religious. Some people are even attempting to turn the exemption business into a lucrative side hustle. Leaders of many major religious organizations and denominations have released statements supporting vaccination and clarifying that their teachings, official and unofficial, do not oppose vaccination. But some are offering "exemption letters" to parishioners who want a minister's religious authority backing them up.