In the 2025 Utah Legislative session, HB 228, Public Education Immunization Amendments, was passed, which statutorily implemented changes regarding how schools address student immunizations. The following is a summary of the changes:
Here’s a summary of the other key changes implemented by the Utah legislature:
- Handling of Exemption Forms: Exemption forms are now part of a student’s permanent school record and remain valid throughout their enrollment.
- Transfer of Records: Schools are now required to share a student’s immunization record, including exemption forms, with a new school upon parent request or when transferring other records.
- No Fees: Schools cannot charge fees for receiving or reviewing immunization records or exemption forms.
- Record Review: Schools must request immunization records upon enrollment and review them within five business days.
- Conditional Enrollment: Students without a complete record may have conditional enrollment for 21 days.
- In-Person Learning: LEAs offering both remote and in-person options cannot deny a student in-person learning based on vaccination status if they have a valid exemption.
- Exemption Process: Parents can claim medical, religious, or personal exemptions by submitting a form. Medical exemptions require a healthcare provider’s statement.
- Proof of Immunity: For claimed immunity due to prior infection, documentation like test results and a healthcare provider’s statement is required.
During the 2023-2024 school year, Kane County School District had the lowest percentage of Kindergarten students immunized in the state, with 75%.
If you would like to review student immunization rules for students, you can visit the following link: https://immunize.utah.gov/utah-immunization-rule/#
I encourage parents to consult with their pediatrician or medical professional for more information about student immunizations.
