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SF 406

A bill for an act relating to powers and duties applicable to public health disasters.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Salmon

Bill SF 406 empowers individuals to make informed health decisions during public emergencies, ensuring no mandatory vaccinations and clarifying health department duties.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
#diseases #emergencymanagement #executivebranch #freedoms #healthandhumanservicesdepartment #identification #immunizations #publichealthdisasters
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Bill Summary · SF 406

Summary of Bill SF 406

Bill Number: SF 406
Title: A bill for an act relating to powers and duties applicable to public health disasters
Status: Subcommittee recommends passage
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Diseases, Emergency Management, Executive Branch, Freedoms, Health and Human Services Department, Identification, Immunizations, Public Health Disasters

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill SF 406 is to clarify and define the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Department in the context of public health disasters. The bill aims to ensure that individuals retain autonomy over their health decisions, particularly regarding vaccinations and treatments during public health emergencies.

Key Provisions

  1. Vaccination Authority:

    • The bill stipulates that individuals cannot be mandated to receive vaccinations against infectious diseases.
    • Before vaccination, individuals (or their guardians) must be provided with a federal vaccine information statement detailing the benefits and risks associated with the vaccine.
    • Vaccination should not be recommended if it poses a reasonable likelihood of serious harm.

  2. Individual Autonomy:

    • Individuals have the ultimate authority to decide whether to accept recommended vaccinations or treatments, free from undue pressure or compulsion.

  3. Isolation Protocols:

    • The Health and Human Services Department may isolate individuals infected with a disease if they are unable or unwilling to undergo treatment or prophylaxis.
    • Isolation measures must comply with existing laws regarding communicable diseases and disaster preparedness.

  4. Public Engagement:

    • The bill requires the department to create a link on its website for qualified individuals to submit evidence-based information related to public health emergencies.
    • It also allows members of the public to share their experiences during public health disasters.

  5. Rule Adoption:

    • The department is tasked with adopting rules to administer the provisions of the bill, including criteria for participation in the public engagement aspect.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals: The bill directly impacts individuals who may be subject to vaccination or treatment recommendations during public health emergencies, ensuring their rights to make informed decisions.
  • Health and Human Services Department: The department will have defined responsibilities and powers regarding public health management, particularly in isolation and treatment recommendations.

Procedural Aspects

  • Subcommittee Actions:
    • The bill was introduced and referred to the Health and Human Services Committee on February 20, 2025.
    • A subcommittee meeting was held on February 26, 2025, where the bill was discussed.
    • On March 3, 2025, the subcommittee recommended the bill for passage.

Conclusion

Bill SF 406 seeks to balance public health needs with individual rights during health crises. By establishing clear guidelines for vaccination and treatment recommendations, the bill aims to empower individuals while providing the Health and Human Services Department with the necessary tools to manage public health disasters effectively.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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