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 there is uncertainty about whether the vaccine caused the event. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Health to submit an annual report to the General Assembly by January 15, detailing adverse reactions reported by practitioners. This report will include the total number of adverse reactions, a breakdown by immunization type and age of recipients, costs associated with emergency department visits, and statistics on hospitalizations, permanent disabilities, and deaths related to these reactions. The Department will also summarize its efforts to assist Vermonters seeking compensation under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act.

The bill includes specific new provisions, such as the requirement for the Department of Health to post the report on its website and distribute 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