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SB 797

Health: immunizations; promulgation of certain rules that are more stringent than the requirements for claiming exemption from immunizations; prohibit. Amends sec. 9215 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9215).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ruth Johnson and 3 co-sponsors

SB 797 prohibits Michigan health department from creating stricter immunization exemption rules than state law allows, prioritizing legislative authority over agency discretion.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
#health:education #health:immunizations #stateagencies(existing):healthandhumanservices
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Bill Summary · SB 797

Legislative bill overview

SB 797 would amend Michigan's public health code to prohibit the state health department from creating rules that make immunization exemptions more difficult to obtain than what state law currently allows. The bill targets regulatory overreach by preventing authorities from adding stricter requirements beyond the statutory exemption standards.

Why is this important

Immunization policy directly affects public health outcomes and disease prevention in communities. This bill addresses the tension between public health authority discretion and legislative intent—determining who decides what exemption requirements are appropriate and whether regulatory agencies can effectively increase restrictions beyond what lawmakers established.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of regulatory authority: Whether health departments need flexibility to adapt exemption rules to emerging public health threats, or whether such changes should require legislative action
  • Vaccination rates and herd immunity: Concerns that limiting exemption restrictions could reduce immunization coverage and weaken disease prevention, particularly for vulnerable populations
  • Parental choice vs. public health: Disagreement over balancing individual exemption access against community-level disease control and the protection of those unable to be vaccinated

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

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