Bill > A1931

This bill clarifies the existing statutory exemptions from mandatory student immunizations, expanding them to include students in preschool programs, elementary and secondary schools, and institutions of higher education. It establishes two primary grounds for exemption: a medical contraindication certified by a licensed healthcare provider, or a sincerely held religious belief that conflicts with vaccination. For religious exemptions, the bill introduces stricter documentation requirements, including a notarized statement detailing the nature of the religious tenet, its consistent practice, and confirmation that the objection is not based on general philosophical or moral views, or concerns about vaccine safety or efficacy. Students seeking a religious exemption must also acknowledge the risks and benefits of vaccination and the potential for exclusion during public health emergencies. The bill also grants the Commissioner of Health the authority to adopt emergency regulations to implement these provisions and allows for the suspension of religious exemptions during declared health emergencies.