The bill introduced on February 17, 2025, seeks to amend West Virginia's Code regarding immunizations by establishing voluntary vaccinations and eliminating any mandates for citizens. Specifically, it changes the language from "Compulsory immunization" to "Voluntary immunization" for school children, adolescents, and adults. The bill stipulates that while parents may receive information on immunizations for their newborns if requested, there will no longer be any compulsory immunization requirements for children entering schools or state-regulated child care centers.
Additionally, the bill prohibits public, private, and parochial schools, as well as state-regulated child care centers and employers, from requiring vaccinations as a condition for enrollment, attendance, or employment. It also introduces penalties for physicians who provide false immunization certificates. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that vaccination remains a voluntary choice for individuals and families in West Virginia.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 16-3-4