This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish that vaccinations for all citizens, including children, adolescents, and adults, are voluntary. It eliminates all compulsory immunization requirements, meaning that no individual will be mandated to receive vaccinations as a condition for school enrollment, attendance, or employment. The bill also stipulates that parents of newborns may request immunization information, but it is not required to be provided unless requested.
Key deletions from the current law include the removal of mandatory vaccination requirements for school entry and the authority of health officials to enforce these mandates. The bill introduces new language that emphasizes the voluntary nature of vaccinations and prohibits public educational institutions from requiring vaccinations for enrollment or employment. Additionally, it establishes penalties for physicians who provide false immunization certificates. Overall, the bill aims to provide greater autonomy to individuals regarding their vaccination choices.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 16-3-4