New Hampshire lawmakers vote to end state vaccine program

New Hampshire legislators recently voted to end the state’s childhood vaccine buying program. The bill passed by a narrow vote in the House. It will shut down the New Hampshire Vaccine Association.

Why the bill was introduced in New hempshire

The bill aims to disband the New Hampshire Vaccine Association. This organization helps fund childhood vaccines in the state. Some people think this program is too costly. Others believe the private sector should take over the vaccine buying. The introduction of the bill caused widespread debate in New political circles.

Concerns about vaccines

Rep. Jessica LaMontagne spoke against the bill. She warned that ending the program would hurt the state and shared an emotional story about her father-in-law’s struggle with polio. She believes fewer children would be vaccinated without the program.

But Rep. Jim Kofalt disagreed. He argued the bill would not affect vaccine rates and said the program was too expensive and unclear. He believes the private sector could buy vaccines more efficiently. His stance highlighted a split within New Hampshire’s legislative body.

How the vote went

The vote was close. The bill passed the House by just eight votes. The final count was 189 in favor and 181 against. The bill had both supporters and opponents. Some Republicans joined Democrats in voting against it.

What Is the New Hampshire Vaccine Association?

The New Hampshire Vaccine Association is a state-run organization. It collects money from insurers to pay for childhood vaccines. The association buys vaccines in bulk to lower costs. It ensures all children can get vaccinated, no matter their family’s income or insurance. The new bill threatens to disrupt this established process.

The bill now moves to the House Ways and Means Committee. If the committee approves it, the bill will go to the Senate. Governor Kelly Ayotte has not yet commented on the bill. However, she has supported the vaccine program in the past.

At a hearing in February, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services opposed the bill. Many doctors, nurses, and medical organizations also disagreed with it.