Subject: SB 277 now in effect

SB 277, the new law restricting personal beliefs exemptions to immunization requirements, became effective on January 1, 2016; however, for many schools, the effects from the bill will become apparent closer to the start of the 2016-17 school year.  

The California Department of Public Health, Immunization Branch has made changes to the resources and information available on www.shotsforschool.org about personal beliefs exemptions (PBE) to reflect the new law. PBE forms (CDPH-8262) have been removed from the website. We ask that child-care facilities and schools recycle any remaining copies of PBE forms that you may have.

Recently updated materials include:

·        Guide to Immunizations Required for Child Care

·        Parents' Guide to Immunizations Required for Child Care

·        Parents' Guide to Immunizations Required for School Entry

·        SB 277 Frequently Asked Questions

A common question we receive asks if PBE forms filed in 2015 are valid for children first entering child care or school in California in the fall of 2016. PBEs filed in 2015 are only valid when signed by both an authorized health care provider and a parent/guardian no more than 6 months prior to first entry into school or child care or a new grade span. Therefore, PBEs filed in 2015 are invalid for children first entering school or child care, or advancing to 7^th grade in California in the fall of 2016.

For more information about school immunization requirements and resources, please visit:http://www.shotsforschool.org/.

Can’t find what you need? Email us at [email protected].