MORGANTOWN, W.Va (WDTV) – Earlier this week the West Virginia House of Delegates passed another bill. This time, it was House Bill 5105, which proposes to eliminate vaccine requirements in schools. Although the bill passed, the vote had a tight 57 to 41 margin. Delegate Joey Garcia (D) voted in opposition, saying the bill simply does not suit West Virginia.

“It’s going to hurt public health,” Garcia said. “It’s going to potentially hurt vulnerable populations in West Virginia, where we have an overall unhealthy population. It’s just not right for our people.”

Garcia further expressed why he thinks vaccine requirements in schools are important.

“We have some of the best school immunization laws in the country we’re number 1 or close to the top,” said Garcia. “It’s very important for the kids that are going there, so there’s not outbreaks and other people that may be vulnerable in their home. This protects whole communities along with the teachers and staff that work there.”

The decision in Charleston has also created discussion locally. Monongalia County Commissioner, Tom Bloom, says it should be a medical decision, not a political one.

“When you go to a doctor, you listen to their advice,” Bloom said. “You don’t go to a politician and ask for that advice. Please, let’s let the doctors do what they do best. They’re telling the school system it ensures the health of everyone.”

House Bill 5105 has been communicated to the Senate, and there has been no further consideration as of Thursday. WDTV attempted to reach out to the sponsoring delegates of HB 5105 but requests were unsuccessful.

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