New Hampshire House Bill HB1608

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/22/21
• Refer: 12/22/21
• Report Pass: 2/10/22
• Refer: 2/17/22
• Report Pass: 3/24/22
• Engrossed: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/5/22
• Report Pass: 4/14/22
• Enrolled: 5/13/22
• Passed: 5/24/22

Caption

Relative to withdrawal from the state immunization registry.

Impact

The passage of HB 1608 would have implications for state regulations surrounding immunization records and data collection practices. It could potentially shift the approach toward how public health data is managed, emphasizing consent and personal choice. By ensuring individuals are aware of their right to opt-out of the immunization registry, the bill aims to reinforce the principle that personal medical information should not be retained without explicit approval. The bill's action to engage in a public information campaign by the DHHS further supports transparency and individual autonomy.

Summary

House Bill 1608 addresses the issue of individual privacy regarding vaccination status, specifically related to COVID-19 vaccinations. The bill mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) inform the public of their right to withdraw their COVID-19 vaccination status from the state immunization registry. This is significant in light of New Hampshire's constitutional provisions recognizing the right to privacy, particularly in healthcare-related matters. The intent is to provide individuals with control over their personal medical information and ensure that consent is sought before collecting such data.

Contention

While the bill promotes privacy rights, it may also raise contention regarding public health data management. Some stakeholders may argue that restricting the retention of vaccination information could hinder the state's ability to track and manage public health issues effectively. Furthermore, the requirement for a public outreach campaign could incur administrative considerations for state resources. The dialogue surrounding this legislation could reflect broader concerns about balancing individual rights with collective public health needs and responsibilities.