Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0797

Introduced
2/24/26  

Caption

Health: immunizations; promulgation of certain rules that are more stringent than the requirements for claiming exemption from immunizations; prohibit. Amends sec. 9215 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9215).

Impact

The amendments introduced by SB 797 aim to streamline the process for granting immunization exemptions and ensure that the rules governing such exemptions align closely with existing parental and medical rights. By specifying that the Department of Health cannot impose additional requirements on the exemption beyond what is stated in the bill, it aims to protect the rights of parents while also addressing health concerns raised by physicians regarding specific immunizations.

Summary

Senate Bill 797 amends the 1978 Public Health Code in Michigan, specifically focusing on the provisions regarding immunization exemptions. The bill outlines that a child may be exempt from immunization requirements if a physician certifies that the immunization is detrimental to the child's health. Additionally, parents or guardians can present a written statement for religious or personal beliefs to obtain an exemption from the requirements. This is intended to simplify the exemption process and clarify the roles of medical professionals and parents in these decisions.

Contention

The bill may spark debate among public health officials and advocates. While supporters may view SB 797 as a necessary protection for individual freedoms and a means to address genuine health concerns, critics could argue that it poses risks to public health by making it easier for parents to opt out of vaccinating their children. Concerns may arise regarding the balance between personal beliefs and community health, especially in the context of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB5634

Health: immunizations; promulgation of certain rules that are more stringent than the requirements for claiming exemption from immunizations; prohibit. Amends sec. 9215 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9215).

MI HB5635

Health: immunizations; promulgation of certain rules that are more stringent than the requirements for claiming exemption from immunizations; prohibit. Amends sec. 1177 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1177). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5634'26

MI SB0798

Health: immunizations; promulgation of certain rules that are more stringent than the requirements for claiming exemption from immunizations; prohibit. Amends sec. 1177 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1177). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0797'26

MI HB4553

Education: attendance; promulgation of certain rules that are more stringent than the requirements for claiming exemption from immunizations; prohibit. Amends sec. 1177 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1177). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4552'25

MI HB4552

Health: immunizations; promulgation of certain rules and regulations that are more stringent than the vaccination exemptions provided in statute and that exclude individuals from school as a disease control measure; prohibit. Amends secs. 9215 & 9227 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9215 & 333.9227) & adds sec. 5115a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4553'25

MI HB5349

Health: immunizations; exemptions to immunization requirements; modify to require the use of forms created by the department. Amends sec. 9215 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9215).

MI HB5351

Health: immunizations; certain information used in promulgating rules on immunizations; provide for. Amends sec. 9227 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9227). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5353'25

MI HB5346

Health: immunizations; Michigan care improvement registry; ensure that users have access to certain data. Amends secs. 9201 & 9207 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9201 & 333.9207).

MI HB5348

Education: other; exemptions to immunization requirements; modify to require the use of forms created by the department of health and human services. Amends sec. 1177 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1177). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5349'25

MI HB5350

Health: local health departments; report regarding immunization levels and exemptions; require local health officer to submit to local governing entity. Amends sec. 9209 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9209).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.