MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama House of Representatives has passed legislation requiring parental consent for minors to receive vaccinations, a move critics say could undermine public health efforts in a state already grappling with low vaccination rates.
House Bill 2, sponsored by Rep. Chip Brown, R-Hollingers Island, passed on Tuesday by a vote of 76-22. The bill would require written parental consent for unemancipated minors to receive any vaccine, amending current state law that allows those 14 and older to consent to medical treatments. The measure now heads to the Senate for consideration.
Supporters of the bill argue it strengthens parental rights by ensuring parents have the final say in their children’s healthcare decisions. Brown has described the legislation as a “parental rights bill,” emphasizing that it is not intended to discourage vaccinations.
However, public health advocates and medical professionals warn the bill could create barriers for minors seeking immunizations, potentially leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases. Critics also view the legislation as part of a broader national trend fueled by vaccine skepticism and misinformation.
Alabama has long struggled with low vaccination rates and ranks near the bottom nationally in several public health metrics. Opponents of the bill argue that adding hurdles to vaccination access could exacerbate these challenges and jeopardize community immunity.
The legislation reflects a growing trend across the country where states are debating measures that critics say cater to anti-vaccine movements. Alabama’s embrace of such policies has drawn concern from public health experts who warn of the potential consequences for both individual and community health.
If enacted, the law would take effect on October 1, 2025, further reshaping Alabama’s approach to adolescent healthcare and vaccination policy.