EXEMPTIONS
There can be a lot of exemption misunderstandings. Iowa Code, Chapter 139a.8(6) and Iowa Administrative Code, 641-7.7(139) outline the immunization requirements for students attending licensed child care centers and elementary or secondary schools. Under Iowa law, licensed child care centers and elementary or secondary schools accept religious and medical exemptions.
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Review the Iowa Department of Health and Human Service’s website for more information or you may also use the medical and religious exemptions provided here on our website.
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You can find more information from the National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC) too.
Difficult to obtain as most doctors do not want to sign them. This form must be signed by a medical doctor, M.D., or D.O.. A chiropractor signature will not suffice. Your child has to have a significant medical issue that justifies not receiving vaccines for a doctor to sign this.
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Previous Version:
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As of July 1, 2024 religious exemption forms do not have to be notarized. You are not required to submit a new form and schools must accept an older version of the religious exemption form (with a blank notary line). You cannot be questioned on what your religion is--that is illegal. Any school or daycare accepting state funds must accept the exemption.
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Previous Versions:
Is your school or daycare violating HF299?
Iowa law (HF299) requires schools and daycares to disclose that medical and religious exemptions are allowed. If your school or daycare is not following this law, we want to know.
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Send us a photo of the violation on social media or by email at info@informedchoiceiowa.com.
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Use the template letter below to notify your school or daycare of the violation.​
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Together, we can help ensure that parents are fully informed of their rights under Iowa law.
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