Skip to content Skip to Content

Texas bill awaiting governor’s signature could ease vaccine exemptions

<i>KTBS via CNN Newsource</i><br/>House Bill 1586 would permit parents to download an exemption form for school immunization requirements.
KTBS via CNN Newsource
House Bill 1586 would permit parents to download an exemption form for school immunization requirements.

By KTBS Web Staff

Click here for updates on this story

    AUSTIN, Texas (KTBS) — Texas is one signature away from allowing parents more direct control over school-required vaccinations, a move that could significantly increase the number of unvaccinated children in the state.

House Bill 1586, which has passed both legislative chambers and awaits the governor’s signature, would permit parents to download an exemption form for school immunization requirements. Currently, parents must contact the Texas Department of Health to obtain such a form.

While vaccines protecting against measles, meningitis, hepatitis, and other contagious diseases remain required for school enrollment, HB 1586 streamlines the exemption process.

Supporters of HB 1586 argue that the legislation reduces bureaucratic hurdles and costs associated with obtaining vaccine exemptions.

Parents seeking guidance on their children’s vaccination status or the new exemption process are encouraged to contact their pediatricians for advice.

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Article Topic Follows: CNN - Regional

Jump to comments ↓

CNN Newsource

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

News Channel 3 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.