HB 413 -- BIOTERRORISM VACCINATION PROGRAM

SPONSOR:  Hubbard

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass by consent" by the Special
Committee on Urban Issues by a vote of 8 to 0.

This bill requires the Department of Health and Senior Services
to offer a vaccination program for first responders who may be
exposed to infectious diseases as a result of bioterrorism.  At a
minimum, the program must include vaccinations for smallpox,
anthrax, and other vaccinations recommended by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on
Immunization Practices.

Participation in the vaccination program is voluntary, except for
first responders identified by their employers as personnel who
cannot safely perform their emergency responsibilities without
the vaccination.  The bill requires that the recommendations of
the advisory committee be followed when screening first
responders for contraindications to the vaccination.  First
responders will be exempt from vaccinations when medically
contraindicated.

The department must give priority to first responders and persons
exposed to biological agents if there is a shortage of a vaccine.
Educational material regarding ways to prevent exposure must also
be provided to first responders.  The department may contract
with other entities for the administration of vaccinations.  The
program will become effective upon receipt of federal funds.

The bill contains an emergency clause.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds in FY 2006, FY 2007, and
FY 2008.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say it is important that first responders
are among the first people to receive vaccination because they
are on the front line and the first to be exposed to infectious
diseases when a disaster occurs.

Testifying for the bill were Representatives Hubbard and
Wildberger; and Professional Firefighters of Eastern Missouri.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Robert Triplett, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
93rd General Assembly, 1st Regular Session
Last Updated August 25, 2005 at 1:19 pm