WEEKLY UPDATE: 03/12/26
The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) provided testimony on two bills that seek to update how vaccine standards are established and implemented in Connecticut: HB 5044, An Act Establishing Connecticut Vaccine Standards and SB 450, An Act Concerning The Standard Of Care For Immunization.
The bills generated a great deal of interest and activity at the state Capitol, with over 500 people signing up to testify at the public hearing on the bills that took place on Wednesday, March 11.
The bills seek to allow a mechanism through which the Department of Public Health (DPH) is able to ensure that Connecticut’s list of available and recommended vaccinations is current and evidence-based. At a time when the federal government vaccine recommendation process is undergoing significant changes, the proposed bills would expand the sources of information that DPH considers when establishing the state’s immunization standards. That is a necessary and appropriate step to take to protect public health, CHA said in its testimony.
CHA expressed support for efforts that strengthen evidence-based vaccination policy and protect public health. Vaccines are widely recognized as one of the most effective tools for preventing disease and reducing serious illness, hospitalizations, and deaths, and hospitals support policies that promote safe and effective immunization practices across the state.
CHA also provided testimony in support of the proposed creation of a “vaccines for adults program” to be administered by DPH, as an additive to other pathways through which adults receive vaccinations. CHA also provided recommended additions to the bill for clarity.
