The Community Health Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance the authority of healthcare providers in the District of Columbia to order and administer immunizations. The bill amends the District of Columbia Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 and the Consent for Vaccination of Minors Amendment Act of 2022. Key changes include the replacement of references to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the inclusion of the option for healthcare providers to follow guidelines from other competent medical or public health organizations designated by the Director of the Department of Health.
Specifically, the bill modifies language in several sections to clarify that immunizations can be administered in accordance with the guidelines of ACIP or other designated organizations, rather than solely relying on CDC guidelines. This change is reflected in both the Health Occupations Revision Act and the Consent for Vaccination of Minors Amendment Act, ensuring that healthcare providers have the flexibility to follow a broader range of authoritative recommendations for immunizations. The act is set to take effect upon approval by the Mayor and will remain in effect for a maximum of 90 days.