Relates to the publication of immunization information

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why James Skoufis says this is needed

Immunization against vaccine-preventable communicable diseases is one of the most effective tools that we have to protect public health, partic- ularly the health of immuno-compromised children and adults, cancer survivors, and pregnant women, all of whom may not be able to be vacci- nated due to potential medical contradictions. In order to ensure that New York state has the strongest immunization rates possible, it is crucial that policymakers and public health offi- cials have appropriate access to accurate data regarding immunization rates at New York schools. Additionally, parents (particularly parents of children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons) deserve to know whether or not their child's school is maintaining a rate of immunization against communica- ble diseases. No parent should have to worry for the safety of their child when sending them to an environment that is supposed to be benefi- cial, nurturing, and educational. This legislation would require the Department of Health to make specific information about schools' compliance for each immunization series required by law prominently available on its website. This would ensure that anyone seeking information regarding immunization rates in New York would quickly be able to find accurate, up-to-date data. It would also require the Department to analyze and publish trends in immunization rates and medical exemptions from the law over time, to ensure that "herd immunity" is being maintained. This would increase public awareness of New York's immunity to communicable diseases and help identify areas of concern across the state where immunization rates are under herd immunity levels.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.