TX SB46

Changes Texas immunization registry from an opt-in consent system to an opt-out exclusion system, automatically including immunization records unless an individual or their legal representative requests exclusion

Provides multiple methods to request exclusion from the registry: at birth, each time a vaccination is administered, via electronic submission on the department's website, through written request, or following a disaster

Requires only one exclusion request to permanently remove an individual's information from the registry, unless they later submit a written request for re-inclusion

Prohibits the Department of State Health Services from selling registry information to any public or private entity and bars use of registry data to deny services during disasters (except for medical contraindications)

Allows release of registry information for internal public health research with institutional review board approval, and for external research only with individual consent, de-identified data, or IRB approval requiring informed consent from subjects

Takes effect January 1, 2027, with the public awareness campaign provisions taking effect September 1, 2025