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Bill

HB 1118

RELATING TO NON-MEDICAL EXEMPTIONS TO IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

Hawaii bill expands non-medical immunization exemptions for students, allowing more parental opt-outs from vaccination requirements with contested public health implications.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#immunizations #non-medicalexemptions #repeal
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Bill Summary · HB 1118

Legislative bill overview

HB 1118 would modify Hawaii's immunization requirements by expanding non-medical exemptions for students. The bill passed committee with amendments but was carried over to the 2026 session without final passage, indicating ongoing legislative debate about its provisions.

Why is this important

Immunization exemption policies directly affect public health by determining vaccination rates in schools, which impact disease prevention and community immunity levels. Hawaii's decision on this issue will influence whether the state maintains stricter vaccination requirements compared to other states or expands parental choice in medical decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health vs. parental autonomy: Expanding non-medical exemptions could reduce vaccination rates and increase disease transmission risk in schools, while supporters argue parents should have decision-making authority over their children's medical care
  • Committee division: The 5-5 split vote (with reservations) and 3 voting against indicates significant disagreement among legislators about the appropriate balance between immunization protection and exemptions
  • Implementation ambiguity: The specific exemptions being added aren't detailed in the action summary, making it unclear what grounds (religious, philosophical, personal belief) would newly qualify for exemptions and how broadly they would apply

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

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