St. Paul, MN - Today, the Minnesota House Preventive Health Policy Division held an informational hearing on the importance of childhood immunization. The committee, chaired by Rep. Mike Freiberg (DFL - Golden Valley), heard presentations from Dr. John Grabenstein and Dr. Robert Jacobson.
“The crucial, lifesaving practice of childhood immunization is also one with an unfortunate amount of disinformation,” said Rep. Freiberg. “As we work to prioritize and legislate for preventive health measures, it’s important that our committee, and all Minnesotans, have access to accurate data.
“There is rightfully a lot of focus on the COVID-19 vaccine, and outbreaks in our state of previously eliminated diseases like measles highlight the importance of a societal commitment to vaccinations. The rejection of science-backed medicine by those who are able to utilize it only serves to prolong outbreaks and harm those unable to take advantage of these vaccines.”
Committee members heard testimony on the development, testing, and monitoring of vaccines in Dr. Grabenstein’s presentation, and Dr. Jacobson highlighted the history behind vaccine hesitancy, as well as current vaccine practices. Dr. Grabenstein is the editor of the Immunization Action Coalition, and previously served as a Colonel and Director of the Military Vaccine Agency. Dr. Jacobson is a Professor of Pediatrics at the Mayo Clinic.
Presentation slides and other supporting materials are available on the committee’s webpage. Video recording of today’s hearing will be made available on the House Public Information YouTube channel.