H.B. No. 1586 amends the Health and Safety Code to establish a clearer process for claiming exemptions from required immunizations for school enrollment. The bill mandates the Department of State Health Services to develop a blank affidavit form that individuals can use to claim such exemptions. This form will be made available in a printable format on the department's website, and individuals may also request it in writing without needing to provide personal information. Additionally, the affidavit must include a statement acknowledging the understanding of the benefits and risks associated with immunizations.

The bill also modifies the department's record-keeping requirements, allowing it to maintain records of how many times the affidavit form is accessed or requested, while prohibiting the collection of personally identifying information from individuals who download or submit the form. The changes will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and the department is required to update the existing affidavit form within 30 days of the bill's effective date. The act may take immediate effect if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 161.0041 (Health and Safety Code 161)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 161.0041 (Health and Safety Code 161)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 161.0041 (Health and Safety Code 161)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 161.0041 (Health and Safety Code 161)
Enrolled: Health and Safety Code 161.0041 (Health and Safety Code 161)