1993.04.01 :  Comprehensive Child Immunization Act of 1992

Contact:  CDC Press Office (404) 639-3286
April 1, 1993

       The Clinton Administration today announced its proposed
"Comprehensive Child Immunization Act of 1993," which HHS
Secretary Donna E. Shalala called "a turning point in our efforts
to have every American child properly immunized by 2 years of
age."
       The legislation will be introduced in the Congress by
Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Representative John Dingell, Senator
Donald Riegle, Representative Henry Waxman, Representative Louise
Slaughter, Representative Eva Clayton and others.
       The President's comprehensive initiative would build on
the Administration's plans to improve the nation's immunization
delivery system this year and in 1994.  President Clinton's
economic stimulus package includes $300 million for this year to
strengthen the immunization system, especially through increased
funding of community "Immunization Action Plans" in 87 cities and
counties throughout the country.  
       The Presidential initiative announced today provides for a
nationwide immunization tracking system, through state
registries, to help ensure that all children receive appropriate
immunizations at the recommended ages.  It also would establish a
federal universal vaccine purchasing program beginning in 1995,
to ensure that all American children are immunized on schedule. 
The universal purchase system would be phased-out as immunization
services for all children become available as part of the broad
based reform of the nation's health care system.
       "This initiative embodies the President's commitment to
ensure proper immunization for all American children," Secretary
Shalala said.  "This is a sound and cost effective investment in
America's future health and productivity.  And it is an essential
first step 
towards a national health care reform plan that will emphasize
prevention and guarantee families the security of health care
coverage."
       Other provisions of the legislation would reauthorize the
National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, and would provide
for outreach to parents and others, including improved and
easier-to-understand informational materials.
       Federal funding to establish the state tracking registries
is estimated at $275 million for fiscal years 1995 and 1996.  The
annual cost for universal purchase of vaccines is estimated at
$1.1 billion in FY 1995.

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