West Virginia considers loosening vaccine rules during outbreak

West Virginia is considering changes to its vaccination rules for schoolchildren amid a deadly measles outbreak. A proposed amendment that would have made it easier for parents to exempt their children from required vaccinations was removed from a recent House bill. Despite this, the bill still includes broader medical exemptions than any other state. West Virginia has had strict vaccination laws, but current discussions come as measles has infected over 300 people in 15 states, with one child dying in Texas. Some health experts express concern over the timing of these potential changes. "It's hard to understand why we are doing this now," said Candice Lefeber from the American Academy of Pediatrics in West Virginia. Other states, like Idaho, are also easing vaccine requirements. Lawmakers there have passed a bill that would remove vaccination mandates for schools entirely if the governor signs it. Nationwide, vaccination rates have been declining since the COVID-19 pandemic, with a growing skepticism about vaccines. This skepticism is influenced by prominent figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has downplayed the outbreak's seriousness. In West Virginia, the existing bill will expand medical exemptions but lacks enforcement measures. There are concerns that it might allow people to create fake exemptions. Groups advocating for vaccinations are closely monitoring the legislation, which could affect future vaccination rates. Last year, West Virginia reported some of the highest vaccination rates in the country, with 98.3% of kindergarteners receiving their measles vaccinations. The debate about vaccine mandates has intensified this year. Former Governor Jim Justice previously vetoed a similar bill, while Governor Patrick Morrisey introduced an executive order that could create more exemptions. As the legislative process continues, lawmakers must reconcile different versions of the bill before sending it to the governor for approval. The outcome could shape the future of vaccination policy in West Virginia and its response to the ongoing measles outbreak.