The Health and Welfare Committee voted 13-2 against Governor Edward’s plan to add COVID vaccines to the list of scheduled shots required for students. Like other vaccines, families have the choice to opt out, and students can still attend school. State Superintendent Cade Brumley maintains the vaccine is a personal choice.
“I’ve been pretty clear that in terms of vaccines I think that families, parents should have those conversations with their family doctor and make a decision that’s in the best interest of their kid,” said Brumley.
Governor Edwards issued a statement that he still plans to add the COVID vaccine to the school schedule fall of 2022, that right now would only apply to students 16 and older because it’s only FDA approved for that age group. Brumley said the governor will have to consider testimony heard at the meeting Monday.
“And certainly, the action from the oversite committee where they essentially made the decision that they would prefer that that vaccine not be on the list of required vaccines for school children,” said Brumley.
If the vaccine requirement does go into effect Brumley said they will assist those parents who choose not to vaccinate their children against COVID.
“We’re going to make sure that every system and parent across the state has access to the form so they can opt-out of that particular vaccine if that is their personal or religious belief that they need to do so,” said Brumley.
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