Does Arizona require public input before a vaccine can be added to the required school immunization list?
By Ngan Nguyen
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YES
Though Arizona law gives the state Department of Health Services authority to decide which vaccines are necessary for school attendance, the agency is subject to the state’s rulemaking process if it wants to change immunization requirements.
That process gives the public the opportunity to comment on proposed changes—meaning “parents, health care professionals, the education community, and everyday Arizonans” would have a chance to weigh in on prospective changes to school immunization requirements, according to ADHS’s Don Herrington.
In the case of the COVID-19 vaccine, Arizona has barred state health officials from adding it to the list.
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
Sources
Arizona Legislature Immunizations | Department Rules
Arizona Secretary of State Arizona Rulemaking Manual - September 2011
AZ Dept. of Health Services Director's Blog COVID-19 vaccination and school/childcare attendance: Your questions answered
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