Bill > HB358

This bill modifies New Hampshire's existing law regarding immunization exemptions by simplifying the process for parents or legal guardians to claim a religious exemption for childhood immunizations. Currently, parents must sign a specific form to claim a religious exemption, but the bill removes this requirement and instead allows parents to provide a simple written statement signed by the parent or legal guardian stating that their child has not been immunized due to religious beliefs. The bill maintains the existing medical exemption, which allows physicians to certify that immunization may be detrimental to a child's health, with the exemption lasting only for the period the physician determines the immunization would be harmful. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its passage, streamlining the religious exemption process while preserving the option for parents to opt out of mandatory immunizations based on their religious beliefs.