Current state law permits the conscientiously held beliefs of the parent or guardian to exempt their minor child from immunization. The law has been in place since 1978. A pair of recently introduced bills, SF 3439 co-authored by five Democrats in the Senate, and HF 3239 co-authored by ten Democrats in the House, seeks to repeal the law.

“As a strong supporter of medical freedom and parental authority, I’m absolutely opposed to forced vaccinations,” Sen. Eric Lucero (R-Saint Michael) said. “I respect and support those who choose vaccinations just as I respect and support those who choose, for whatever reason, not to be vaccinated.”

SF 3439 has been referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, and HF 3239 has been referred to the House Health Finance and Policy Committee. Both bills are awaiting action in the respective committees.

“I received dozens-upon-dozens of communications within 24 hours of the bills being introduced, from people across our area, urging me to oppose the legislation,” Sen. Lucero said. “My message to our great community is I will vote against any vaccination-by-government-coercion legislation. I will continue to stand for individual choice.”