Health Commissioner Dr. Rick Hildebrant responded to Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signing bill H.545 “to ensure Vermonters can continue to access vaccines based on evidence-based recommendations from the state Department of Health.”
“Routine immunizations are the best way to protect yourself and your family from many serious illnesses,” Dr. Hildebrant stated. “A Vermont where basic vaccines remain accessible and affordable is simply a healthier Vermont.”
In addition to clarifying how the Health Department recommends vaccines, the new law makes sure the cost of purchasing most vaccines will continue to be covered by insurers and establishes alternatives for the state to purchase vaccines if a recommended vaccine is not available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The law also provides limited legal protections for Vermont health care providers who administer vaccines in accordance with recommendations from the Health Department.