By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri lawmakers are considering legislation that would give back to them the authority to require vaccinations.
A change in the law eleven years ago gave that power to the Department of Health and Senior Services. But legislators say they need more oversight for approving immunizations.
The issue has become a hot topic as states look at requiring girls be vaccinated with a new drug that fights sexually transmitted diseases that can lead to cervical cancer.
Texas's governor has ordered girls in that state to get the vaccine. Critics say mandating the shots could lead to sexual promiscuity.
But opponents of the Missouri law change say it could slow down the state's response to epidemics.