Heather Gagliano urges Idaho committee to reject Senate Bill 10 23 over vaccine concerns

The Idaho House Health & Welfare Committee convened on March 14, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including the implications of Medicaid funding for schools and the contentious Senate Bill 10 23 regarding vaccination records.

The meeting began with a discussion led by Miss Perry, who clarified that schools do receive Medicaid funding, specifically through school-based Medicaid programs. A representative raised concerns about a section of the bill that suggested entities receiving Medicaid funding might be exempt from certain requirements. Miss Perry acknowledged the complexity of the issue, particularly regarding immunization laws and their application to school employees, noting that she could not provide a definitive legal interpretation.

Following this discussion, Heather Gagliano, a nurse and mother, addressed the committee to express her opposition to Senate Bill 10 23. She highlighted recent health crises in Idaho schools, including closures due to widespread illness among students and staff. Gagliano emphasized the importance of vaccination records in preventing outbreaks, citing a significant number of pertussis cases in the previous year. She argued that vaccine rules have been a longstanding tradition in public schools and urged the committee to maintain these standards to ensure the safety of Idaho children.

The committee did not appear to reach a conclusion on the bill during this session, and further discussions are expected as the implications of both Medicaid funding and vaccination policies continue to be evaluated. The meeting underscored the ongoing debate surrounding public health measures in schools and the balance between parental choice and community safety.