The bill amends Section 22-8-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to establish new requirements regarding the consent needed for minors to receive vaccinations. Specifically, it introduces a new subsection (b) that stipulates that an unemancipated minor cannot give consent for their own vaccination without the written consent of a parent or legal guardian. This amendment also clarifies that an unemancipated minor may only give consent for vaccination if they meet certain criteria, including being independent from their parent or guardian, living apart from them, and managing their own affairs.

Additionally, the bill modifies the existing language in subsection (a) by changing the phrasing regarding minors who can give effective consent for medical services. It removes the previous conditions of being married, divorced, or pregnant, and instead focuses on the age of the minor (14 years or older) or those who have graduated from high school. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-8-4, 22-8-4
Engrossed: 22-8-4, 22-8-4