Bill > H1446

This bill clarifies the meningococcal vaccine policy for students attending colleges, universities, and secondary schools in Massachusetts by establishing new immunization requirements. Specifically, the bill mandates that newly enrolled full-time students must provide a medical certificate proving they have been immunized against meningococcal disease, in line with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Students will have 30 days after registration to submit their immunization documentation. The bill includes two key exceptions: a physician can certify that immunization would endanger a student's health, and students who state in writing that immunization conflicts with their religious beliefs can be exempted (unless there is a declared emergency or disease epidemic). Importantly, the legislation does not require educational institutions to provide or pay for the vaccine. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health will be responsible for creating rules and guidance to enforce this policy, which aims to protect student health by ensuring widespread immunization against a potentially serious bacterial disease that can cause meningitis.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1446