Advisory group votes against recommending vaccine requirement for Washington school children

OLYMPIA, Wash. – An advisory group to the Washington State Board of Health has narrowly decided against recommending COVID-19 vaccinations be required for Washington school children.

The group voted 7-6 against the recommendation with four unsure.

Group members voting “no” pointed to unintended consequences, a lack of data and the possibility of some children missing school.

Supporters expressed comfort with the safety of the vaccines and felt the requirement would help end the pandemic.

The recommendation now goes to the full Board of Health which could override the advisory group’s decision.