The first legislative session of 2025 is set to begin Feb. 4, 2025. Here is a look at just some of the bills that have been prefiled for the new session. We’d love to hear the community’s thoughts on upcoming legislation. Comments can be sent to [email protected].
HB 2 – Alabama House Bill 2 (HB2), prefiled by Rep. Chip Brown for the 2025 Regular Session, seeks to mandate written parental or legal guardian consent for minors to receive vaccinations. Under current Alabama law, minors aged 14 and older can consent to medical treatments without parental approval. HB2 proposes an amendment requiring unemancipated minors to obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian before receiving any vaccination. Exceptions are made for minors who are financially independent or living apart from their parents and managing their own affairs.
Supporters argue that the bill reinforces parental rights in medical decisions involving their children. Critics, however, express concerns that it could impede timely access to vaccinations for minors, potentially affecting public health efforts. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders and citizens are encouraged to follow developments and participate in discussions regarding the implications of HB2…