In Florida, Republican backing for 'dangerous' vaccine bill begins to drop

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' vaccine bill faces unexpected opposition from within his own Republican Party. The legislation, sponsored by State Sen. Clay Yarborough, would allow parental preference alone to exempt children from school vaccine requirements. Sen. Gayle Harrell (R-Stuart), a Republican colleague, called the bill "dangerous" and said he cannot support it. Medical professionals have also expressed serious concerns. Pediatrician Nectar Aintablian warned the bill contradicts medical training and noted the importance of vaccination in preventing diseases he has witnessed throughout his career. Jennifer Takagishi, Florida chapter vice president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, criticized lawmakers for not listening to medical expertise, expressing frustration that families increasingly rely on social media platforms like TikTok for health research instead of professional guidance.

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