Bill H.69 proposes to enhance the reporting requirements related to adverse reactions from vaccinations in Vermont. It mandates that health care practitioners report all significant adverse events following vaccinations to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, even if the cause is uncertain. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Health to submit an annual report to specific legislative committees by January 15 each year. This report will include detailed information on adverse reactions, such as the total number reported, breakdowns by immunization type and age, costs associated with emergency department visits, and statistics on hospitalizations, permanent disabilities, and deaths. The Department will also summarize its efforts to assist Vermonters seeking compensation under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act.

The bill includes new legal language that establishes these reporting requirements and specifies the content of the annual report. It also stipulates that the Department of Health must make the report available on its website and provide electronic copies to health care providers administering immunizations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-1132