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Bill to Allow Vaccination Opt-Outs with Doctor Sign-Off Gets Initial House Approval

AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine House has given initial approval to a bill that provides an opt-out provision for parents who would prefer not to have their children receive vaccinations required to attend public schools.

Under the bill, that option would require parents to submit a written statement affirming that consultations with a health care provider on the risks and benefits of immunization had taken place.

Rep. Deborah Sanderson, a Chelsea Republican, opposed a majority committee report recommending the exemption process.

"This bill would direct parents to have a signed declaration from their physician saying that they have discussed vaccines," Sanderson said. "I believe this is the beginning of a very slippery slope to be legislating what happens between a doctor and their patient. I urge you to vote no on this. Thank you."

The bill's supporters say they hope those discussions with health care providers will actually lead to more immunizations, since Maine has one of the highest rates in the country for voluntary opt-outs among children entering kindergarten.