Current Legislation - Sept. 20, 2012

EXEMPTIONS FROM MANDATORY IMMUNIZATIONS FOR STUDENTS:  S-1759 (Weinberg/Vitale) was released from the Senate Health and Senior Services Committee today by a vote of 6 to 2.  The legislation clarifies the process whereby a student is exempted from mandatory immunizations.  Specifically, the bill requires a written note signed by a licensed physician saying the vaccine is medically inadvisable or a written note by a parent or guardian saying the vaccine goes against a bona fide religious belief or practice.  NJEA supported the bill, but is working with the bill’s sponsors to amend it to include a physician of medicine or osteopathy, an advanced practice nurse or physician assistant licensed to practice in the United States.  NJEA is also seeking to include students enrolled in early childhood programs under the bill.  It is now on second reading in the Senate. 

HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR STUDENT ATHLETE PHYSICAL EXAMS:  S-1910 (Madden) would require insurers to cover the cost of physicals needed to participate in student athletic or camp activities.  NJEA supported the bill, which passed in the Senate Education Committee and is now on second reading in the Senate.