New Jersey Assembly Bill AR127

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/17/22
• Refer: 3/17/22

Caption

Urges Congress to compel Department of Health and Human Services to fulfill its obligations pursuant to the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986.

Impact

If the resolution is adopted, it would reaffirm the federal government's responsibilities concerning vaccine safety and reporting. By pushing for action from Congress, it also aims to enhance transparency and ensure that necessary mechanisms are in place for improving vaccine safety. The resolution highlights the importance of continuing oversight and the need for DHHS to meet its obligations under existing law. This could lead to more stringent monitoring of vaccine safety standards and potentially more robust public health policies regarding immunizations.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 127 is a legislative measure aimed at urging the United States Congress to compel the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to fulfill its obligations under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 (NCVIA). This act was established to enhance vaccine safety and ensure optimal preventive measures against human infectious diseases through immunization. The resolution emphasizes that since the ACT's inception, the Secretary has failed to provide required biennial reports to Congress detailing actions taken to improve vaccine safety, which is crucial for public health oversight and accountability.

Contention

The notable point of contention within Assembly Resolution No. 127 revolves around the strong assertion that the economic and legal protections provided to vaccine manufacturers may discourage efforts to enhance vaccine safety. Critics argue that the lack of accountability due to these protections may result in insufficient innovation in vaccine safety. Advocates for the resolution believe it is vital to hold the DHHS accountable to mitigate risks associated with vaccines, which have public health implications. The resolution also indirectly raises questions about the balance between ensuring a stable supply of vaccines and the need for stringent safety protocols.