S.B. No. 407 amends Section 224.002(c) of the Health and Safety Code to establish new requirements for health care facilities regarding their policies on vaccine preventable diseases. The bill mandates that these policies must include procedures for individuals to be exempt from required vaccinations based on reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs. Additionally, it prohibits health care facilities from rejecting such exemptions for any reason.

The legislation aims to ensure that individuals can exercise their rights to refuse vaccinations on the grounds of personal or religious beliefs without facing discrimination from health care facilities. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 224.002 (Health and Safety Code 224)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 224.002 (Health and Safety Code 224)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 224.002 (Health and Safety Code 224)