Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish a grant program designed to tackle outbreaks of diseases that can be prevented by vaccines, especially in areas with low vaccination rates. It makes funds available for projects that increase vaccination coverage to prevent diseases like measles.

Main Provisions

• Grant Program Establishment: The Minnesota Department of Health will set up a two-year grant initiative to support vaccine-related activities. The goal is to mitigate outbreak risks in communities with low vaccination rates.
• Eligible Recipients: Grants can be awarded to community health boards and nonprofit organizations that serve regions with low vaccination coverage.
• Application Process: Entities need to submit applications detailing proposed activities, targeted locations or populations, requested funding, and a budget plan.
• Use of Funds: Grants can be used for educational and awareness campaigns, addressing vaccine misinformation, and helping individuals access vaccines. Information must be culturally sensitive.
• Development of Materials: The Health Commissioner must provide grant recipients with educational materials about vaccines, using resources from the CDC. These materials should be available in the main languages of at-risk populations and cover topics such as vaccine benefits, safety, schedules, and available vaccination programs.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill does not amend existing laws but introduces a new, time-limited initiative, with funding specifically earmarked for tackling vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks.

Relevant Terms

• Vaccine-preventable diseases
• Community health boards
• Nonprofit organizations
• Vaccination-related activities
• Vaccine misinformation
• CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• Vaccination schedules
• Low vaccination rates