Bill > S347

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding medical exemptions for school immunizations by establishing more comprehensive and protective guidelines for medical exemption certifications. The bill allows physicians to provide a medical exemption based on their independent medical judgment, considering factors such as potential adverse events, family medical history, or potential exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. The new law requires that medical exemption certifications (called "Medical Certifications") be submitted annually to the school health program, and mandates that these certifications remain strictly confidential and cannot be disclosed outside the school health program or used as evidence in legal proceedings without explicit parental consent. Additionally, the bill provides significant protection for physicians, stating that they cannot be subject to disciplinary action for providing a medical exemption (absent manifest bad faith) and that the exemption certification cannot negatively impact the physician's professional ratings, affiliations, or standing with employers, insurers, hospitals, or academic institutions.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S347