Florida Department of Health Holds Public Hearing on Proposed Revisions to School Immunization Rule
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ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health held a public hearing on proposed revisions to Rule 64D-3.046, Florida Administrative Code, related to immunization requirements for school and childcare entry.
The hearing provided Floridians with an opportunity to comment on the proposal and hear directly from the Department about the changes, their purpose and how they would affect current requirements. The hearing is one step in Florida’s rulemaking process and does not constitute final adoption of the rule.
“Parents know their children best, and they should be the ultimate decision-makers about their children’s health,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. “Our role is to provide families with clear information and access to care, not to substitute government mandates for informed decision-making. These proposed changes give parents greater ability to make those choices, advance the mission of public health by increasing their engagement, and preserve the requirements established in Florida law.”
About the Proposed Revisions
The proposed revisions to Rule 64D-3.046, F.A.C., would align the Department’s administrative requirements with the immunizations specifically identified in Florida statute.
Under the proposal, hepatitis B, varicella, haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines would no longer be required as part of school and child care entry requirements established through Department rule. Immunization for polio, diphtheria, measles, rubella, pertussis, mumps, and tetanus, established in section 1003.22, Florida Statutes, remain in place.
The proposed rule changes would also update immunization and exemption forms, guidelines, requirements for opting out of participation in Florida SHOTS, school compliance reporting, and access to Florida SHOTS.
Removing rule requirements does not prohibit parents from choosing these immunizations for their children. The proposal changes which immunizations are required for school or childcare entry; it does not eliminate a parent’s ability to choose additional immunizations.
The Department also reminds Floridians that existing protections under Florida law remain in place. Religious and medical exemptions from applicable immunization requirements continue to be recognized, and schools and childcare facilities must continue to comply with applicable state law.
The Department remains committed to providing Floridians with clear, accurate health information, protecting informed consent, and supporting parents as they make health care decisions for their families. The Department will continue to carry out its responsibilities under Florida law while ensuring families have access to information and resources to make informed choices.