Texas Senate Bill SB1114

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to a policy on vaccine-preventable diseases for public schools.

Impact

The passage of SB1114 would significantly influence the regulation of public health within the educational system in Texas. By requiring vaccinations for school employees, the bill aims to create a safer environment for students, potentially reducing the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases in schools. The bill establishes protocols for how schools should handle exemptions and outlines the responsibilities of employees to ensure the protection of students, thereby fostering a culture of health and safety in public educational institutions.

Summary

Senate Bill 1114 seeks to establish a policy regarding vaccine-preventable diseases within public schools. This legislation mandates that each public school develop and implement a comprehensive policy designed to protect students from diseases that can be prevented through vaccination. The bill highlights the necessity for school employees to be vaccinated according to recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the CDC, based on their exposure risk to students. Additionally, it outlines verification procedures to ensure compliance and specifies measures for employees who may be exempt from vaccination due to medical reasons.

Contention

While the bill promotes public health, it is likely to encounter opposition regarding individual rights and medical freedom. Proponents argue that the health and safety of students take precedence, while opponents may express concern over governmental overreach in mandating vaccinations for employees. Issues related to the potential for discrimination against employees refusing vaccination for legitimate medical reasons may also arise, with critics arguing that the bill could infringe on personal autonomy. The discussions surrounding the effective implementation of this policy may reveal a spectrum of opinions on the balance between community health responsibilities and individual rights.