MS HB1505

Allows parents or legal guardians to exempt children from immunization requirements in schools and licensed child care facilities if the immunization conflicts with their religious beliefs.

Requires parents or guardians seeking a religious exemption to submit a signed affidavit to the school or facility official affirming that the immunization conflicts with their religious beliefs.

Permits school and child care facility officials to require immunizations regardless of religious exemption during disease epidemic stages.

Applies the religious exemption to both school attendance requirements under Section 41-23-37 and pneumococcal immunization requirements for licensed child care centers under Section 43-20-8.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.