09/05/2025
Florida Moves to End Vaccine Mandates
We debated on whether we wanted to cover this or not. It is a very divisive topic, and our focus is on bringing the community together. But as some people may not know what is going on, we felt a duty to at least get the information out there.
Florida’s surgeon general, Joseph Ladapo, announced that the state is moving to end all vaccine mandates. He said the Department of Health will work with Governor Ron DeSantis and state lawmakers to remove remaining requirements, including those tied to school entry. If enacted, Florida would be the first state to eliminate all such mandates.
Right now, Florida requires certain vaccines for children to attend school. Some mandates are set by Department of Health rules, and others are in state law. Officials indicated they will revise health rules and also seek legislative changes where needed. A specific timetable was not provided. Until any new rules or laws take effect, current school immunization requirements remain in place.
State leaders framed the move as one of personal choice and parental rights. They said the plan is to unwind remaining mandates through rule changes and proposed legislation.
Medical organizations and many public health experts warned that the change could lower vaccination rates and increase the risk of outbreaks of preventable diseases such as measles, polio, and whooping cough, which pose higher risks to infants, seniors, and immunocompromised residents.
Nothing changes immediately for families. Schools continue to follow current state immunization requirements unless and until new state rules or laws are adopted. We will track any official updates that affect enrollment or school health procedures in Hillsborough County.
Potential Department of Health rulemaking, bills filed in the next legislative session, and any legal challenges. We will share concrete changes as they are finalized, along with clear steps for families.
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