Tennessee Senate Bill SB1090

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 14; Title 36, Chapter 1, Part 1; Title 37; Title 49; Title 50 and Title 68, relative to immunizations.

Impact

The implications of SB1090 are significant, as it modifies existing state laws related to public health and immunization. By allowing a broader religious exemption, the bill could decrease vaccination rates among school-aged children, leading to potential public health risks. The legislation alters the landscape of how immunizations are mandated and enforced in Tennessee, thus challenging previous requirements aimed at ensuring herd immunity against common preventable diseases.

Summary

Senate Bill 1090 seeks to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding immunizations. Specifically, it allows for the exemption from mandated immunizations for children if their parents or guardians provide a written statement affirming that such immunizations conflict with their religious beliefs. This statement must be signed under penalty of perjury, and no further proof of religious conviction is required. The bill directly affects school health requirements, as well as regulations imposed by governmental entities.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB1090 revolve around the balance between individual religious freedom and public health imperatives. Proponents argue that the bill respects personal beliefs and freedom of choice, claiming it does not impose undue burdens on families who object to vaccinations for religious reasons. However, critics raise concerns about the long-term health effects of reduced vaccination coverage, citing the risks of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. This contention highlights an ongoing national discussion around public health policy and individual rights.

Broader_context

Within the legislative framework, SB1090 is part of a broader trend towards accommodating religious exemptions in various public health mandates. These changes reflect growing societal divisions over the necessity and safety of vaccinations, particularly in light of recent public debates about vaccine hesitancy. The bill's passage could set a precedent for other states considering similar legislation, thus potentially reshaping the national conversation around immunization requirements and public health strategies.