HB 1463-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Provides that, beginning with sixth grade entry, every public and private school in the state shall provide parents and guardians with information about meningococcal disease and its vaccine at the beginning of every school year. The information about meningococcal disease shall include: (1) Its causes and symptoms, how meningococcal disease is spread, and the places where parents and guardians may obtain additional information and vaccinations for their children; and

(2) Current recommendations from the United States centers for disease control and prevention regarding the receipt of vaccines for meningococcal disease and where the vaccination can be received.

Declares that this provision shall not be construed to require the department of health or the school to provide meningococcal vaccination to students.

Requires the department of health to prepare the informational materials and shall consult with the office of superintendent of public instruction.

Does not create a private right of action.

VETO MESSAGE ON HB 1463-S

May 11, 2005

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,

The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning, without my approval as to Section 2, Substitute House Bill No. 1463 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to meningococcal immunization."

This bill requires that public and private schools provide parents or guardians of students in 6th grade and above with information on meningococcal disease every school year. It is an important bill that is consistent with our ongoing public health efforts.

Section 2 of the bill inserts an emergency clause that is not necessary for this type of legislation. It is reasonable to give the Department of Health and Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction time over the summer to develop the informational materials that will be distributed in schools.

For these reasons, I have vetoed Section 2 of Substitute House Bill No. 1463.

With the exception of sections Section 2, Substitute House Bill No. 1463 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Christine O. Gregoire

Governor