In recent weeks, demand for the COVID-19 vaccine in Iowa has declined sharply, but the number of Iowans who have had at least one shot hasn't even reached 70 percent. That's raising concern among public health officials.

In Marion County 39 percent residents have received the COVID-19 shot.

The lawsuit, filed Monday, alleges that IU's vaccine requirement goes against the FDA's emergency use authorization of the vaccines and violates CDC guidelines and "modern medical ethics."

Indiana State University will encourage but not require COVID-19 vaccinations for students and employees when they return to the western Indiana school for the upcoming academic year.

Gov. Eric Holcomb said he's still opposed to the state providing financial incentives as a way to encourage more Hoosiers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Indiana's COVID-19 vaccination rate has continued to stagnate, with about 10,500 Hoosiers getting the vaccine each day, according to the state's seven-day average as of Thursday.

Gov. Eric Holcomb said he still strongly encourages people to get the vaccine. Indiana ranks 36th in the country for the percentage of its population fully vaccinated.

Public health experts say it is unlikely Indiana will reach a 70 percent vaccination rate by July 4 with just weeks until the deadline.

Community organizations addressing COVID-19 response and recovery in Indianapolis will receive grants from a program investing $1 million to address health disparities.

IU's incentive program will have at least two student winners and one employee winner selected for three weeks beginning June 10 at each of its campuses across the state.