This letter is to inform you that there has been a major change to New York State Public Health Law 2164. On June 13, 2019, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed legislation removing non-medical exemptions (Religious Exemptions) from school vaccination requirements for all children attending child day care, public, private, or parochial schools.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE/NEW FOR THE 2019-2020 school year-Effective June 13, 2019, there is no longer a Religious Exemption from school immunization requirement. Parents are encouraged to have their child receive the first dose of any vaccine needed as soon as possible. The deadline for obtaining the first dose of any required vaccination for children attending school in the fall is 14 days from the first day of school, or SEPTEMBER 19, 2019. Within 30 days from the first day of school, parents and guardians must provide documentation from your provider’s office that appointments have been made for all follow-up doses.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR CHILD?

                        In order for your child to attend school in September,

  1. Your child will need to receive all age appropriate immunizations in accordance with the ACIP catch-up immunization schedule. A list of immunizations your child needs is enclosed. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/catchup-shell.html
  2. The first dose of any required vaccine must be received within 14 days from the first day of school. The health office must receive documentation that the immunizations have been received. (deadline September 19, 2019)
  3. Within 30 days of the first day of school, parents/guardians must provide documentation from a medical provider that they have made appointments for all required follow-up doses. (deadline October 5, 2019)
  4. Appointments for follow up doses must be kept or your child will not be permitted to remain in school.

School Districts are required by NYS Public Health Law to enforce this new legislation, and to not allow any student to attend school who is not up-to-date on immunizations or in the process of receiving the required immunizations.

Your child can receive immunizations at your pediatrician’s office or the Rensselaer County Department of Health, 1600 7th Ave, Troy, NY  12180. Phone (518)270-2655. Immunization clinic hours: Tuesday, 2-4pm; Thursday, 9-11am. Call before going to make sure they will be open. Bring copies of any previous immunization records.

Please call the health office or the Rensselaer Department of Health with any questions.

Sincerely,

Michele Corsey, RN
Religious Exemption Letter to Families