1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

As your constituent, I am writing to strongly oppose Bill S1618, “An Act Promoting Community Immunity.” I believe this bill poses significant threats to parental rights, medical autonomy, and the freedoms that are fundamental to a free and just society. One of the most troubling aspects of this bill is the provision that allows minors to consent to preventative care, including vaccinations, without parental knowledge or approval. This undermines the role of parents in making decisions for their children’s health and well-being, a right that should not be stripped away by the state. Children, especially minors, do not have the maturity, experience, or understanding to make informed medical decisions. Allowing minors to make such significant health decisions independently of their parents not only disregards parental authority but also risks the health of children who may not fully comprehend the potential consequences of these decisions. Furthermore, the bill grants private institutions like daycares, schools, and colleges the ability to refuse religious exemptions and impose additional vaccines not mandated by the Department of Public Health such as the COVID-19 Vaccine. This creates an environment where personal and deeply held beliefs are disregarded, and children could be excluded from important educational opportunities for reasons that have nothing to do with their health or well-being. Another concerning provision is the limitation on medical exemptions for vaccination. Children with legitimate medical conditions could find it harder to obtain the necessary exemptions that protect them from vaccines that may be harmful to their health. This goes against the principle that medical decisions should be made between a patient and their doctor, based on the unique needs of the individual. The bill gives the Department of Public Health broad power to change immunization and exemption requirements at will. This centralized control would erode the rights of families and communities, limiting their ability to make informed decisions about their health. I firmly believe in parents’ rights to make informed health decisions for their children and grandchildren. I want to ensure our children grow up in an environment where their health and well-being are respected and protected, without interference from sweeping government mandates. This bill represents an alarming infringement on the rights of families and individuals.  Please OPPOSE Bill S1618, “An Act Promoting Community Immunity.”