Yesterday, the Michigan Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) approved new childhood immunization guidelines developed by the Snyder Administration.

With the new rule taking effect January 1, 2015, any parent wishing to get a vaccination exemption for their child will now be required to visit their local health department to receive information and education before signing the exemption form.

The new rule reads: "Each non-medical exemption filed at the child's school or group program of a child entering a program after December 31, 2014, shall be certified by the local health department that the individual received education on the risks of not receiving the vaccines being waived and the benefits of vaccination to the individual and the community. All waivers shall be submitted using the waiver form prescribed by the department."

Previously, parents could simply sign the waiver at their children's school without any informed consent.

The Michigan State Medical Society along with other physician, nurse and health care leaders from across Michigan lead the coalition to protect Michigan children by increasing immunization rates and immunization awareness across our state.

In a joint statement, the coalition said: "Childhood immunizations protect our kids from dangerous infectious diseases such as measles, mumps and whooping cough, but more and more Michigan kids are at risk as non-medical exemption rates rise and immunization rates fall. In fact, Michigan unfortunately boasts the nation's 4th highest rate of vaccination exemptions. This puts everyone at risk.

"Today's update to state regulations regarding immunizations is about information and education and ensuring parents have enough of both as they make critical health decisions that impact their families and communities. Families choosing not to immunize their children will still be able to do so, but they will be supported with a consistent, detailed assessment of the personal and public health implications of their choices. We commend the Snyder Administration, state Senator Jim Marleau, and lawmakers for their leadership on this essential issue and for making this important update to state rules."