The bill aims to amend the existing law regarding compulsory immunizations for school children in West Virginia, specifically focusing on the roles of the State Health Officer and the procedures for obtaining exemptions. It replaces the term "commissioner" with "State Health Officer" throughout the text, clarifying that this officer is responsible for providing parents with information about required immunizations at the time of a child's birth. The bill specifies that children must be immunized against a list of diseases to be admitted to public schools or state-regulated child care centers, and it outlines the process for obtaining exemptions from these requirements.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that protect licensed healthcare providers who issue written statements for exemptions, ensuring they will not face disciplinary actions or penalties for doing so. It also establishes that county health departments will provide vaccines for children whose families cannot afford them. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining public health while allowing for medical exemptions, thereby balancing the need for immunization with individual health considerations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-3-4