Connecticut House Bill HB05140

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

An Act Allowing A Moral Or Philosophical Objection As An Exemption To The School Immunization Requirements.

Impact

The impact of HB 5140 could potentially reshape the landscape of school immunization requirements in the state. If enacted, it would enable a broader range of exemptions, aligning school policies more closely with individual beliefs and values. Advocates of the bill argue that it reinforces personal autonomy and respects the diverse perspectives of families regarding health decisions. However, this could lead to varying immunization rates and, subsequently, might affect community immunity levels against vaccine-preventable diseases.

Summary

House Bill 5140 aims to provide an exception to school immunization requirements based on moral or philosophical objections. This bill proposes an amendment to Section 10-204a of the general statutes, allowing parents or guardians to opt out of mandatory vaccinations for their children if they hold specific moral or philosophical beliefs against immunization. The introduction of this bill stems from ongoing debates surrounding parental rights and public health policies, particularly in the context of immunization mandates in schools.

Contention

Discussion around HB 5140 has highlighted notable points of contention. Proponents express the need for individuals to have the right to refuse vaccinations based on their beliefs, suggesting that mandatory vaccination infringes upon personal freedoms. Conversely, public health advocates and some legislators worry that allowing exemptions for moral or philosophical reasons could undermine the effectiveness of vaccination programs. They argue that lower immunization rates could lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases, posing risks particularly to vulnerable populations.