New Jersey Assembly Bill A4112

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/2/22

Caption

Requires automatic registration with New Jersey Immunization Information System upon administration of vaccine for certain persons who consent to registration.

Impact

If enacted, A4112 would amend existing legislation regarding vaccinations and clearly define the processes for registration and access to immunization records. This bill is designed to make immunization histories readily available to healthcare providers, schools, and sanctioned entities as necessary to prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases. By fostering an organized database of immunization records, the bill aims to improve health outcomes through better tracking and management of vaccinations, thereby increasing compliance with recommended immunization schedules.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4112 requires automatic registration with the New Jersey Immunization Information System (NJIIS) at the time a vaccine is administered to individuals who are not already registered, unless a written request is made to opt out. The NJIIS is a statewide database that collects and maintains vaccination records, aiming to improve healthcare management and promote effective disease control efforts across the state. This bill serves to streamline the process of registration in the NJIIS and aims to enhance the accuracy and accessibility of immunization records for both healthcare providers and individuals.

Contention

There may be concerns regarding confidentiality and parental consent, particularly for minors, as the bill mandates automatic enrollment unless specifically opted out. Opponents could argue this could infringe on individual rights to privacy or parental authority over children's healthcare decisions. Additionally, the implications of mandatory vaccination record-keeping may raise questions about data security and the appropriate use of sensitive health information. The effectiveness of implementing such a system while maintaining trust and transparency within the community could also be a point of debate.