An Act Establishing A Cause Of Action Against The State For Injury Or Illness Caused To A Student As A Result Of Vaccination Or Medicinal Treatment Requirements.
Impact
If passed, HB06174 would create a new layer of accountability for the state, potentially reshaping how vaccination and medicinal treatment programs are authorized and enforced in schools. It would enable students or their guardians to challenge the state in court regarding the safety and justification of mandatory health programs, thus promoting a discussion about individual rights versus public health obligations. This could lead to increased scrutiny over vaccination policies, influencing how health requirements are framed within educational contexts.
Summary
House Bill 6174 proposes the establishment of a legal avenue for students to initiate lawsuits against the state of Connecticut for injuries or illnesses that may arise from vaccinations or medicinal treatments mandated for school admission. The bill allows for the recovery of actual damages, as well as punitive damages in cases where the state does not adequately verify the safety of a required vaccine or treatment based on publicly available medical testing. This legislation would amend general statutes and has significant implications for the relationship between state mandates and individual health rights.
Contention
The bill presents a contentious point of debate regarding public health policy and individual rights. Proponents argue that it empowers students and parents to seek justice in the event of adverse health effects resulting from state mandates, positioning it as a means to guard against potential negligence. Conversely, opponents may view this legislation as a risk to public health initiatives, expressing concern that it could undermine the state's ability to enforce necessary health measures, especially in the context of communicable diseases and collective safety.
An Act Creating A State Cause Of Action For Injuries Received Or Illness Caused By Vaccinations Or Medicinal Treatment Required As A Condition Of Employment.
An Act Concerning Plans For The Treatment Of Workplace Injuries And Illnesses And Establishing Working Groups To Review Access To Medical Records And Partial Disability Payments Under The Workers' Compensation Act.
An Act Requiring The Periodic Review Of Investigations Relating To Deaths Or Serious Injuries On The Waterways Of The State That May Be Caused By Alcohol Or Drug Use.
An Act Concerning The Award Of Double Or Treble Damages To An Injured Party In A Civil Action Resulting From The Evasion Of Responsibility In The Operation Of Any Vehicle Or Street Racing.