A healing on a bill to amend the Massachusetts vaccination law will take place at 10 a.m., June 28, at the Massachusetts State House, in Boston. Under the state’s current law, parents can decline vaccines for their children by stating that it is contrary to their religious beliefs. The proposed amendment will allow parents to refuse vaccinations without having to state a reason, while still allowing them to enroll their children in school. The legislation is sponsored by Salem Representative John D. Keenan, of the Joint Committee on Education.

 

“Having the law amended is important for our freedom of choice in health care matters,” says Brookline holistic pediatrician Dr. Janet Levatin, who is working to raise awareness about the issue. “Parents should be allowed to decline the elective procedure of vaccination for their own personal reasons, not just because of religious beliefs.”