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Bill

Bill

SB 950

Relating to: eliminating personal conviction exemption from immunizations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Larson and 1 co-sponsor

Wisconsin bill eliminating personal conviction immunization exemptions while maintaining medical and religious exceptions to increase school vaccination rates.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 950

Legislative bill overview

SB 950 would eliminate Wisconsin's personal conviction (philosophical) exemption from immunization requirements, removing one of the pathways by which parents can opt their children out of required vaccinations. The bill would maintain medical and religious exemptions while narrowing the grounds for non-compliance with state immunization mandates.

Why is this important

Immunization exemption policies directly affect public health by influencing vaccination rates in schools and communities. States with broader exemptions have experienced outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases; conversely, eliminating personal conviction exemptions is associated with higher vaccination coverage. This bill represents a significant shift in Wisconsin's vaccination policy framework.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental autonomy vs. public health: Proponents argue eliminating the exemption protects vulnerable populations; opponents contend it restricts parental medical decision-making authority
  • Religious exemption scope: The bill retains religious exemptions, raising questions about whether the distinction between religious and personal conviction is administratively coherent or creates inconsistent protections
  • Implementation burden: Schools and health departments would need new verification procedures to distinguish remaining valid exemptions from denied personal conviction claims

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

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