MS HB1420

Amends Mississippi Code Section 41-23-37 to allow parents or guardians to exempt children from specific vaccination requirements for school attendance by submitting a letter or affidavit documenting which vaccinations have not been given based on the parent's beliefs.

Requires that beginning with the 2013-2014 school year, a form prescribed by the State Department of Health must accompany the exemption letter or affidavit, including a signed attestation from a health care practitioner confirming they provided the parent information about vaccination benefits, risks, and disease health risks.

Maintains existing medical exemptions granted by licensed physicians when the local health officer determines exemption will not cause undue risk to the community.

Requires schools to report vaccination compliance to local health officers within 30 days of the fall term opening and to certify full compliance within 120 days, excluding exempt children.

Takes effect July 1, 2014.