Vaccine expansion proposal HB 5044 draws lengthy debate in CT

CT lawmakers consider expanding vaccine policy, Republicans oppose

CT House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora (R-North Branford).(Molly Ingram / WSHU)An effort by Connecticut lawmakers to expand the state’s vaccine policy has triggered opposition from Republicans and thousands of state residents.Two bills being considered would expand the state’s Department of Public Health’s ability to set and implement immunization recommendations, in the wake of recent changes to federal vaccine policy by the Trump administr…

Vaccine expansion proposal HB 5044 draws lengthy debate in CT

Even in the state with among the highest childhood vaccine uptake in the country, a pair of bills aiming to expand Connecticut’s authority over immunizations drew a swell of opposition at the state Capitol. A public hearing on the proposals held Wednesday had over 500 people signed up to speak. Several hours into the hearing, the vast majority of those who testified were opposed the measures, calling them examples of government overreach and ero…

Hundreds of people flood public hearing on Connecticut vaccine bills

Hundreds of people signed up to speak out about two controversial bills dealing with vaccines in Connecticut. Opponents are concerned that the bills will lead to government overreach, while supporters say the bills simply ensure that people who want to get vaccinated still have access. “I don’t want to be told what to do. It’s my body, my choice,” said...