Share:
Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 30, 2018 04:41 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Donald C. White |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Study of the College and University Student Vaccination Act (Act 83 of 2002) |
In the near future, I intend to introduce a resolution to direct the Joint State Government Commission to study the College and University Student Vaccination Act (Act 83 of 2002). Act 83, which I prime sponsored in 2002, requires students residing in institutions of higher education housing to receive a one-time vaccination against meningococcal disease unless the student seeks exception to the requirement. As a result, incoming freshmen are provided with information about the vaccine and can choose to sign a waiver or to be immunized. Prior to Act 83, there were no immunization requirements for college students. Since enactment of Act 83, The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) within the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) has revised its guidance on best practices for the administration of meningococcal vaccines. In light of these changes, I believe it would be beneficial to examine the impact of the law and consider ways in which we might improve its effectiveness. My resolution would call on the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study of the College and University Student Vaccination Act to determine immunization rates for Meningitis (ACWY); examine if any institutions of higher education have modified their policies to reflect ACIP recommendations; and evaluate potential measures to ensure a higher voluntary immunization rate for Meningitis. Please join me in co-sponsoring this resolution so we can continue to prevent the devastating impact this disease has on young people. If you have any questions, please contact Anne Achenbach, of my staff, at 787-4404 or at aachenbach@pasen.gov. |
Introduced as SR292