Bill > S1618

This bill establishes the Community Immunity Act, a comprehensive framework for managing immunization requirements across various educational and community settings in Massachusetts. The legislation creates a standardized process for immunization documentation and exemptions in covered programs including schools, child care centers, recreational camps, and higher education institutions. Participants must provide either proof of immunization according to a department-established schedule, a medical exemption (based on medical conditions), or a religious exemption. The bill requires covered programs to report immunization and exemption rates annually, and introduces an "elevated risk program" designation for programs that haven't achieved herd immunity or fail to report rates. The Department of Public Health will manage the process, create standardized exemption forms, conduct outreach about immunizations, and publish immunization data, including demographic breakdowns during public health emergencies. The bill aims to promote community immunity by ensuring high vaccination rates while providing clear pathways for exemptions and information sharing. Most provisions of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, with some sections taking effect immediately upon enactment.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1618