California ended non-medical immunization exemptions in 2016, but Pan’s bill would follow West Virginia’s lead in having public health officials rather than doctors decide who qualifies for medical exemptions. Doctors would certify that they examined the patient and then send the state health department the reason they are recommending the exemption. She called Pan’s legislation “too extreme” because it would let state health officials overrule doctors’ decisions. Dr. Edmond Sarraf, a pediatrician opposing the bill, said medical exemptions are up only because personal exemptions are no longer permitted. The bill is backed by the California Medical Association and American Academy of Pediatrics.

Source: National Post April 24, 2019 19:41 UTC