Vaccine exemption; authorize for religious, philosophical or conscientious reasons.

HB 1244 would allow parents or guardians to exempt children from school or childcare vaccination requirements based on religious, philosophical, or conscientious beliefs. To claim this exemption, parents must submit a notarized affidavit to the school or facility detailing which vaccines are objected to, acknowledging vaccination risks/benefits, and confirming they understand outbreak protocols. The exemption would require annual renewal and could be revoked during disease outbreaks if a child remains unvaccinated. This bill directly affects students enrolled in Mississippi schools, colleges, and licensed childcare facilities, expanding exemption options beyond existing medical exemptions.