Influenza vaccination; to require private health insurance and the Alabama Medicaid program to pay or reimburse for influenza shots

SB 278 requires private health insurance plans and Alabama Medicaid to cover the full cost of influenza vaccinations administered by licensed healthcare providers, including both the vaccine and associated administration fees. This applies to all settings like doctor's offices, pharmacies, community clinics, and school-based clinics, without restricting where the shot can be given. The bill explicitly preserves individuals' and parents' rights to accept or decline the vaccine and does not affect existing school immunization rules. It takes effect on August 1, 2026, and applies only to influenza shots, not other vaccines.