New Jersey Senate Bill SR23

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

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

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the requirement for the Secretary of DHHS to report biennially to Congress on actions taken to enhance vaccine safety, a duty that has been neglected since the first report was due in 1989. This lack of accountability raises concerns about public health and vaccine safety oversight. By urging Congress to enforce adherence to the NCVIA's stipulations, SR23 advocates for better regulatory compliance and protective measures for public health amidst growing vaccine hesitancy and safety concerns.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 23 (SR23) urges 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). The resolution points out that the NCVIA established a national vaccine program designed to ensure the prevention of infectious diseases via immunization and prevent adverse reactions to vaccines. It outlines that, following the NCVIA, vaccine manufacturers received certain legal protections which may have diminished their motivation to ensure safe vaccine development and improvement.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise surrounding the conflict between ensuring vaccine availability and the safety of vaccine products. There is a concern that the economic and legal immunity given to manufacturers could result in insufficient pressure to enhance vaccine safety standards. Advocates of the resolution argue that improved reporting and accountability mechanisms are necessary to restore public trust in vaccines, while opponents might argue that such measures could disrupt the supply chain and availability of vaccines.