Exemption question.

[meltf]

If the state (GA) does not require or provide a form for exemption can the county or other schools require a notorized exemption on their own form or are they obligated to accept a written one?

I'm simply curious b/c I submitted a written exemption to our preschool (that accepts unvaxed children and is funded) but they kicked it back giving me one day to fill out and have a form notorized. I have no issue doing this, I'm simply curious b/c they said the Health Department requires the form, which they do NOT.

[spero]

http://909shot.com/state-site/Georgia.htm

TITLE 20. EDUCATION
CHAPTER 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION
ARTICLE 16. STUDENTS
PART 3. HEALTH

O.C.G.A. § 20-2-771 (2007)

§ 20-2-771. Immunization of students

(e) This Code section shall not apply to a child whose parent or legal guardian objects to immunization of the child on the grounds that the immunization conflicts with the religious beliefs of the parent or guardian; however, the immunization may be required in cases when such disease is in epidemic stages. For a child to be exempt from immunization on religious grounds, the parent or guardian must first furnish the responsible official of the school or facility an affidavit in which the parent or guardian swears or affirms that the immunization required conflicts with the religious beliefs of the parent or guardian.

From this, it would seem that you are actually obligated to provide your OWN affidavit, but I would have it notarized for "official" good measure.

[meltf]

Hmm interesting b/c our county schools have a "form". It has a blank section to provide your statement and then also has a statement that basicallys says your kid will be kicked out for a short while (14 days ?) if there is an outbreak.

Also, am I reading this statement correctly?

however, the immunization may be required in cases when such disease is in epidemic stages

If there is an epidemic they can force me to vaccinate even if it's against my religious belief? That's frightening knowing how quickly things become "epidemics"

[spero]

Originally Posted by meltf

If there is an epidemic they can force me to vaccinate even if it's against my religious belief?

No. In the next section, the law states:

(f) During an epidemic or a threatened epidemic of any disease preventable by an immunization required by the Department of Human Resources, children who have not been immunized may be excluded from the school or facility until (1) they are immunized against the disease, unless they present valid evidence of prior disease, or (2) the epidemic or threat no longer constitutes a significant public health danger.

The "or" is the important word!

[meltf]

Thanks! I'll check out that link, I missed it when I first read and responded to your post!

[janellesmommy]

Page 3 of Immunization Guidelines for Child Care Facility Operators and School Personnel http://health.state.ga.us/pdfs/preve...l%20(2007).pdf

"If there is a religious exemption, the parent/guardian must give
the facility/school a signed and dated notarized statement or affidavit
stating that immunizations are against their religious beliefs.
This affidavit should be filed instead of the Certificate of
Immunization. The affidavit does not expire."