Mandatory Vaccinations: Precedent and Current Laws


 

Publication Date: January 2008

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Health; Law and ethics

Type:

Abstract:

This report discusses the legal precedent for mandatory vaccination laws and provides a brief overview of state laws that require certain individuals or populations to be vaccinated against various communicable diseases. The role of both the federal and state governments with respect to public health emergency powers, including requiring the use of a vaccine, is discussed. This report will be updated as warranted.