Bill > A09140

This bill amends the New York Public Health Law to provide comprehensive liability protections for healthcare providers administering vaccines. Specifically, the bill shields home care agencies, healthcare facilities, providers, and practitioners from legal liability for injuries caused by vaccine administration, as long as the immunization is performed in compliance with applicable federal, state, or local governmental standards and does not involve willful misconduct or gross negligence. The protections extend to vaccines required by state law, those administered through regulated medical programs, and immunizations given as part of outreach initiatives. The bill defines "injury" to include residual effects of vaccines, meaning that potential side effects or long-term impacts are also covered under these liability protections. These provisions aim to encourage vaccination efforts by reducing legal risks for healthcare providers and institutions administering vaccines, particularly those involving minors. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.