SF3439

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to change immunization requirements for school and child care facility enrollment in Minnesota. Specifically, it seeks to eliminate the use of personal or conscientiously held beliefs as a valid exemption for immunizations against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).

Main Provisions

• Elimination of Exemptions: Starting August 1, 2026, the bill will remove the ability for parents to use conscientiously held beliefs as an exemption for the MMR vaccination requirement for children enrolling in child care facilities, preschool, prekindergarten programs, and elementary or secondary schools.

• Mandatory MMR Immunization: Parents or guardians must provide proof of MMR vaccination or a medical exemption in order for their children to enroll or remain enrolled in the listed educational programs and facilities.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The current law allows exemptions from required immunizations for children whose parents or guardians hold personal beliefs against vaccinations. This bill removes that option specifically for the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, thereby tightening immunization requirements.

• Exemptions can still be granted for medical reasons if a physician provides a statement that the immunization is contraindicated or unnecessary due to existing immunity.

Relevant Terms

• Immunization
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Exemptions
• Conscientiously held beliefs
• Child care facilities
• Preschool and prekindergarten programs
• Medical exemption