Press Releases

Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) will file legislation that mandates, with minimal exemptions, certain vaccinations for all students who attend public schools. The Congresswoman issued the following statement:

"As a former elementary school principal, I know the importance of childhood vaccinations. Research has shown that vaccinations are effective; they keep children healthy, save lives, and protect future generations of Americans.

"The health and safety of children should be our top priority. Children who are not vaccinated put themselves and others in danger of acquiring and spreading preventable diseases, particularly to those individuals who cannot receive vaccinations, such as infants, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems, including the elderly and those with diseases like HIV/AIDS and leukemia.

"That is why I am introducing legislation mandating vaccinations for public school students. Many Americans are not aware of their vaccination status, and every person who is not immunized gives a debilitating disease another possible host," said Congresswoman Wilson.

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Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson is a third-term Congresswoman from Florida representing parts of Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward counties. A former state legislator and school principal, she is the founder of the 5000 Role Models for Excellence Project, a mentoring program for young males at risk of dropping out of school. Congresswoman Wilson also founded the Florida Ports Caucus, a bipartisan taskforce that coordinates federal action in support of Florida's harbors and waterways.