By Mrs. Kenia Peraza, Wife, Mother, & San Ysidro School Board Trustee
As a parent, you and I have the fundamental right to make informed decisions about our child’s health. In California, vaccination laws exist while also allowing for medical exemptions in specific cases. If you have a student, here’s what you need to know about your rights and how exemptions work.
What Are Your Rights as a Parent?
California requires students in both public and private schools to be vaccinated against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough, and polio. However, parents have the right to seek a medical exemption if their child cannot safely receive a vaccine.
Key Points About School Vaccination Laws:
- Designed to prevent the spread of contagious diseases
- Protects students with weakened immune systems who cannot be vaccinated
- Parents can seek medical exemptions if vaccines pose a risk to their child’s health
Medical Exemptions: Protecting Your Child’s Health 
If a doctor determines that a child has a medical condition preventing them from safely receiving a vaccine, they can issue a MEDICAL EXEMPTION. This exemption MUST be submitted through the California Immunization Registry (CAIR) and APPROVED by the state. Parents have the right to consult with their trusted healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their child’s health.
Religious or Personal Belief Exemptions: Not Allowed 
Since 2016, California law (Senate Bill 277) has removed personal belief exemptions, including religious exemptions, for school vaccinations. This means that all children attending school must be vaccinated unless they qualify for a medical exemption.
What If My Child Is Not Vaccinated?
If a student does not have the required vaccines and does not qualify for a medical exemption, they cannot attend in-person school. Parents who choose not to vaccinate may need to consider homeschooling or independent study programs. Understanding your rights and options ensures you can make the best decision for your family.
What Can Parents Do?
- Review your child’s vaccination records to determine their status.
- Consult with a trusted healthcare provider to explore medical exemption options if necessary.
- Know your legal rights and how they apply to school enrollment by contacting your school, school board members, and elected officials like mayors, city councilmembers, and County Supervisors.
- Stay informed on policy updates that may impact your parental rights.
Did you know?
As of now, February 2025, 44 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., allow religious exemptions from school vaccination requirements. Six states that do not permit religious exemptions are California, Connecticut, Maine, Mississippi, New York, and West Virginia. (wresearch.org)
It’s important to note that vaccination can change over time. For instance, in 2019, New York removed its religious exemption for vaccinations. (pewresearch.org) Additionally, in 2023, a federal judge ordered Mississippi to permit religious exemptions from school vaccination rules, altering its previous stance. (justia.com)
Given these evolving legal landscapes, it’s crucial for parents to stay informed about their state’s current vaccination requirements and exemption policies. Consulting with local health departments or school administrators can provide the most up-to-date information.
Final Thoughts
California’s vaccination laws are designed to protect public health, but they also acknowledge the importance of medical exemptions for children with specific health concerns. Parents have the right to make informed decisions regarding their child’s well-being. If you have concerns, talk to your child’s doctor and understand your options.
Have questions? Reach out to your child’s school or pediatrician to learn more about your rights and choices as a parent.
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