Vaccines; religious exemption for K-12 students further provided for, religious exemption for students at public institutions of higher education provided

HB 24 would expand vaccine exemption options for students in Alabama. For K-12 public schools, it allows parents to exempt children from vaccine requirements using a simple written statement (without needing to explain or get approval). For public colleges and universities, it requires these institutions to offer both religious exemptions (via a student's written statement about religious beliefs) and medical exemptions (via a doctor's certification) for mandatory vaccines or disease testing. The bill, currently pending committee review, would take effect October 1, 2026, if passed.