THE ISSUE
Connecticut passed a law last month eliminating a religious exemption from childhood immunization requirements for schools, colleges and day care facilities. As The Associated Press reported, it became the sixth state to end religious exemptions from required childhood vaccinations. Opponents of the new law claimed âthe legislation unfairly infringes on their religious liberties and parental rights,â the AP reported. But proponents say the religious exemption was championed by anti-vaccination forces and posed a threat to public health. Citing the National Conference of State Legislatures, the AP reported that the other states without religious exemptions for vaccines are California, New York, West Virginia, Mississippi and Maine. At issue are childhood vaccinations, including those for measles, mumps and rubella â not COVID-19 shots.