Sec. 161.004. Statewide Immunization of Children.
(a) Every child in the state shall be immunized against vaccine preventable diseases caused by
infectious agents in accordance with the immunization schedule adopted by the board.
(b) Hospitals shall be responsible for:
(1) referring newborns for immunization at the time the newborn screening test is performed;
(2) reviewing the immunization history of every child admitted to the hospital or examined in
the hospital's emergency room or outpatient clinic; and
(3) administering needed vaccinations or referring the child for immunization.
(c) Physicians shall be responsible for reviewing the immunization history of every child
examined and administering any needed vaccinations or referring the child for immunization.
(d) A child is exempt from an immunization required by thissection if:
(1) immunization conflicts with the tenets of an organized religion to which a parent,
managing conservator, or guardian belongs; or
(2) the immunization is medically contraindicated based on an examination of the child by a
physician licensed by any state in the United States.
(e) For purposes of this section, "child" means a person under 18 years of age.
(f) The board shall adopt rules that are necessary to administer this section.
(g) A parent, managing conservator, or guardian may choose the health care provider who
administers the vaccine or immunizing agent under this chapter.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 43, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1,1993.
