HF 2171: Striking elementary and secondary student immunization requirements

What it does

The inclusion of this explanation does not constitute agreement with the explanation’s substance by the members of the general assembly. This bill strikes elementary and secondary student immunization requirements. Current law provides that a person shall not be enrolled in an elementary or secondary school in Iowa without evidence of adequate immunizations against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, rubeola, rubella, and varicella. The bill strikes this provision. Current law provides that evidence of hepatitis type B immunization shall be required of a child born on or after July 1, 1994, prior to enrollment in school in kindergarten or in a grade.

House subcommittee · named January 29, 2026

• Rep. Brooke Boden (R) · brooke.boden@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Helena Hayes (R) · helena.hayes@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Heather Matson (D) · heather.matson@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 2 for, 22 against

For: Inspired Life; Iowans for Freedom

Against: American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN); American Lung Association; Bitches Get Stuff Done; Broadlawns Medical Center; GSK; Iowa Academy of Family Physicians; Iowa Association of School Boards; Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church; Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council; Iowa Environmental Health Association; Iowa Independent Physician Group; Iowa Integrated Health Planning and Advisory Council; and 10 more

In plain words

1. January 27, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Education committee
2. January 29, 2026House subcommittee named: Boden, Hayes and Matson
3. February 4, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. February 4, 2026Approved by the House committee
5. February 4, 2026Committee vote: 14–9