Bill > S373

This bill prohibits healthcare practitioners from refusing to accept a minor patient solely because the minor, parent, guardian, or custodian chooses to vary from the recommended Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Child Immunization Schedule. The bill defines healthcare practitioners as physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses licensed to administer immunizations. While the bill allows for scheduling flexibility, it does not permit complete vaccination refusal, which would still be subject to existing public health requirements. Any healthcare practitioner who refuses treatment based on vaccination schedule differences would be considered to be engaging in unprofessional conduct and could face disciplinary action through their professional licensing board. The North Carolina Medical Board, Board of Nursing, and Commission for Public Health are required to adopt rules implementing these provisions, with specific allowances for exemptions and delayed vaccination administration. The bill's main provisions will become effective on October 1, 2025, with some sections taking effect immediately upon becoming law. The underlying intent is to prevent discrimination against patients who might have alternative vaccination timelines while maintaining overall public health vaccination standards.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S373