ALBANY, NY: Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed Senate bill, S.2994-A, which repeals all non-medical exemptions from vaccination requirements for children. The legislation ends any exemptions from vaccinations due to religious beliefs; and repeals subdivision 9 of section 2164 of the public health law relating to exemption from vaccination due to religious beliefs.

The bill narrowly passed in the Assembly, 77 to 53. The State Senate then approved the bill soon after, and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signed it.

READ FULL BILL HERE

Elected Officials Reactions:

“This is a great step forward in protecting the public health here in New York. This law should lead to a substantial increase in vaccination rates and to improved protection of our most vulnerable residents; infants, the immunocompromised and those who have legitimate medical issues. With Rockland being an epicenter of the current measles outbreak, we greatly appreciate that our advocacy and local efforts were heard and acknowledged. I thank the sponsors of this bill, our local State Representatives who worked to see it passed and Governor Cuomo for understanding it’s importance and signing it so quickly,” said Rockland County Executive Ed Day.

“For the past eight months, I have led the Rockland measles outbreak response and witnessed the effects on our community including multiple hospitalizations including ICU admissions and even a premature birth caused by this disease. Ending non-medical exemptions to vaccination will lead to significantly improved health outcomes for our residents and for everyone across New York State. This bill will make a world of difference for those who need it the most,” said Rockland Commissioner of Health Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert.

“The clock is ticking, outbreaks are rising, and here in the state Senate, we are doing something about it,” said Senator Skoufis. “Vaccines save lives, and unless there is a legitimate medical reason why someone can’t be vaccinated, immunizations ought to be required if that individual wants to be in public spaces. I’m proud that we took this step today and followed the scientific consensus to ensure the public’s health is protected.” said Senator James Skoufis

“Ending non-medical vaccine exemptions will get more people vaccinated and help stop the spread of the Measles. This is about public safety and preventing this disease from sustaining a foothold in the U.S. If we follow science, it’s clear, vaccines save lives. Not one single organized religion denounces vaccines. This is the right step forward.” said Senator David Carlucci