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SCS/SBs 74 & 49 - The act prohibits immunizations containing mercury preservatives after April 1, 2007. Any immunizations administered to children under fourteen years of age or pregnant women shall not contain any mercury preservatives, including thimerosal. The Food and Drug Administration’s designation of an immunization as "thimerosal free" or "trace only" shall comply with this act. Any person who receives an immunization not designated as "thimerosal free" or "trace only" shall be notified in advance that it contains a mercury-based preservative. Beginning April 1, 2007, insurers, health service corporations, or health maintenance organizations who provide coverage for immunizations on a fee schedule or a percentage reimbursement basis shall reimburse at the same rate for immunizations not containing mercury. The Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services will be exempt from compliance with this act by providing documentation of a pending outbreak requiring a public vaccination program for which a sufficient supply of mercury-free vaccines are not available. Any person receiving an exempted vaccination shall be notified in advance that it contains a mercury-based preservative. The Director shall determine the duration of the exemption. The required documentation shall be submitted to the chairs of the committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate whose jurisdiction covers public health policy. This act is similar to SCS/HB 852 (2004). ADRIANE CROUSE
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