California AB 659-Cancer Prevention Act also known as the HPV Vaccine Mandate bill for school kids was introduced by Assembly Member Aguiar-Curry, and co-authored Assembly Members Wendy Carrillo, Friedman, Kalra, Ortega, Papan, and Blanca Rubio and Senator Wiener.
AB 659 will require the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to attend 8-12 grade in public or private school, starting January 1 2024.
The bill would clarify the department’s authority to adopt HPV-related regulations for grades below the 8th grade level. By creating new duties for school districts, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
California would be the first state to have an HPV vaccine mandate without non-medical exemptions available. (No Personal or religious belief exemptions.)
The bill would allow for the California Department of Health's authority to use HPV-related regulations for students.
This bill is another obstacle for equal access to education.
Status of Bill
2/21/23 - This bill has been assigned to Assembly Health Committee. May be heard in committee March 15.
ACTION STEPS FOR THIS WEEK:
Contact the CA Assembly Health Committee directly. By calling and emailing them directly.
Submit your letter of opposition via the Legislative Portal by March 3rd. Instructions on how to do this here. Your letter of opposition submitted in this portal will be part of the legislative analysis.
Meet with your CA Assembly Member office to discuss your opposition to AB 659. (Find your Rep)
Meet with your Religious Leaders to ask them to oppose AB 659 via legislative portal.
Meet with your School Board Members to discuss AB 659 and ask them to oppose the bill via legislative portal.
* As always, maintain a professional demeanor when communicating with legislators and leaders.
Submit your letter of opposition to the legislative portal by Friday March 3rd.
Ask organizations, faith leaders and unions to also submit their opposition as well. A significant factor in defeating bills last year was getting unions and outside organizations to show their unity in opposition to these bills. This shows the legislators who is opposing the bills and makes them think twice about their vote.
Talking points to use when contacting your legislator:
1. This bill would continue to decrease school enrollment when families are forced into a medical intervention in order to attend school.
2. In order to increase school enrollment, there should be minimal requirements for kids to receive an education.
3. HPV is NOT transmitted in a classroom setting, is there an urgent need for this bill?
We are more than happy to help you set up meetings with your legislator and consult with you on the best plan of action for your meeting!
If you are interested in a consult or hosting us to Educate your community on this bill, please email:
Info@PERK-Group.com