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 vaccination without the written consent of a parent or legal guardian. This requirement is in addition to the existing provisions that allow minors aged 14 or older, or those who are married, divorced, or pregnant, to consent to medical services independently. The bill also specifies that an unemancipated minor may only consent to vaccination if they are not dependent on a parent or legal guardian for support or are living apart from their parents or another individual acting in loco parentis.

The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and it aims to ensure that parents or legal guardians maintain authority over vaccination decisions for minors, thereby enhancing parental involvement in healthcare choices for their children. The changes reflect a shift in the legal framework surrounding minors' consent for vaccinations, emphasizing the necessity of parental consent in these situations.

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