Fiery Debate Erupts In Texas House Over Bill Requiring Vaccines For Foster Children

The fireworks started after state Rep. Bill Zedler (R-Arlington) tried to add an amendment to a bill, aimed at improving the state’s Child Protective Services agency, that would restrict doctors from including vaccinations in initial medical examinations for children. The provision was ultimately adopted, 74-58.

Texas Tribune: Texas House Backs Measure Barring Mandatory Vaccines For Foster Children

What started as Texas House members discussing a bill that would improve the state’s Child Protective Services agency turned into a heated debate over vaccines — and whether they should be required for children placed in foster care. And when the debate over House Bill 39 was over Wednesday, members passed a bill that would prevent new foster children from being vaccinated. (Samuels, 5/10)

San Antonio Press-Express: Anti-Vaccination Measure Added To Foster Care Bill In Texas House

The bill, from Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, is part of the state’s attempt to reform its foster care system. Wu’s House Bill 39, which won preliminary approval, would limit on the number of children a Child Protective Services worker could supervise. It would also require speedy medical evaluations of children entering the foster care system. (Cobler, 5/10)

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