HB278 Summary

• Repeals Section 11-47-132, Code of Alabama 1975, which authorized municipalities to adopt and enforce ordinances requiring vaccinations.

• Provides medical exemptions from any mandatory immunization if a licensed physician certifies the immunization is detrimental to the individual's health due to Board of Medical Examiners-defined contraindications.

• Allows exemptions from mandatory immunization for individuals whose bona fide religious beliefs or sincerely held personal beliefs oppose vaccination, and permits caregivers to claim exemptions for elderly or disabled individuals under their care based on the caregiver's beliefs.

• Prohibits employers from taking adverse action against employees based on immunization status, with remedies including injunctive relief, back pay, and punitive damages.

• Prohibits occupational licensing boards from denying, suspending, revoking, or refusing to renew licenses based on immunization status, and prohibits public accommodations and state facilities from refusing entry based on vaccination status.