This bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to include a statement in all printed or electronic materials related to childhood immunization requirements, indicating that medical and religious exemptions are available under New Hampshire law. The new section, RSA 141-C:20-g, requires that these materials, distributed in connection with school and childcare enrollment, also include a link to a webpage detailing current immunization exemptions. Additionally, the bill introduces a new subdivision, RSA 318:47-n, which requires pharmacies to inform consumers of their right to request the lowest available price for prescription drugs, including various pricing options such as insurance costs, cash prices, and available discounts.

Furthermore, the bill modifies eligibility criteria for the New Hampshire child care scholarship program, allowing families with gross monthly incomes up to 95% of the state median income to qualify. This change is contingent upon available funding and reallocates certain revenue sources, including surplus tobacco tax revenues and profits from the Liquor Commission, to support the program. The bill anticipates that approximately 6,090 additional children may qualify for scholarships, potentially costing around $29 million annually, along with the need for additional staffing and system updates. The effective date for the immunization notice requirement is set for 90 days post-passage, while the remaining provisions will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 141-C:20-c, 141-C:21
As Amended by the House: 141-C:20-c, 141-C:21
As Amended by the Senate: 167:83, 78:24, 176:16, 178:26, 287-J:6, 284:21-j
Version adopted by both bodies: 167:83
HB1584 text: 141-C:20-c, 141-C:21