Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to improve the tracking and transparency of immunization data by incorporating it into death records and requiring regular public reports and audits on vaccine-related deaths and injuries.

Main Provisions

1. Inclusion of Immunization Data on Death Certificates:

   • The commissioner of health is required to document vaccination dates and types administered within two years prior to a person's death on their death certificate.
   • Death certificates must include specific vaccination details such as the administration date, dose volume, expiration date, and vaccine product name.
   • For minors under 18, their complete immunization record must be attached to their death certificate.

2. Immunization Death Reports:

   • The commissioner must prepare a public report annually, detailing deaths occurring within various time frames post-immunization, categorized by vaccine type, gender, age, race, ethnicity, and any available health conditions.
   • An additional report covering the last five years of such data must be issued within 30 days after the state's fiscal year ends.

3. Cause of Death and Injury Study:

   • A biennial study analyzing causes of death and injuries must be conducted, including demographic data while ensuring privacy.
   • The findings must be publicly reported before each major election cycle.

4. Independent Audit of Reports:

   • Four independent audit proposals must be selected every two years to verify the accuracy of reports. These auditors must remain unaffiliated with government or industry entities.
   • Auditors will perform their tasks in compliance with privacy laws and will share findings with the commissioner before public disclosure.

Significant Changes

• This bill mandates the inclusion of detailed immunization records in death records, which was not previously required.
• It introduces regular public reporting and independent auditing related to immunizations and their potential links to death and injury, aiming to enhance public health transparency and accountability.

Relevant Terms

• Death Certificate
• Immunization Record
• Vaccine Information
• Public Health Report
• Independent Audit
• Privacy Laws
• Demographic Data
• Vaccine-related deaths
• Biennial Study