Wisconsin Assembly Bill 398, introduced in 2025 by Representative Elijah Behnke and 16 co-sponsors (mostly Republicans), requires schools, child care centers, and nursery schools to include a clear waiver procedure on every health-related enrollment form. Under current law, students must show proof of immunizations within 30 days of starting, but can get a waiver for health, religious, or personal reasons by submitting a written statement. The bill ensures the waiver option is explained right on the forms, making it easier for parents, guardians, or students to understand and use their right to opt out.
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Movement, supports this bill as a Pro-MAHA initiative because it boosts transparency and makes vaccine waivers more accessible, aligning with MAHA's emphasis on informed consent in health decisions. By requiring waiver info on every form, the bill empowers Wisconsin families to choose what's best for their kids without hidden barriers, challenging one-size-fits-all mandates. It promotes Kennedy's vision of a healthcare system that respects personal freedoms and puts parents in control, helping build trust and healthier choices in communities.