Montana would ban vaccines containing aluminum once officials certify alternatives

Montana would prohibit selling or using vaccines containing aluminum as an ingredient. The ban would cover vaccine sales and use throughout Montana, including vaccines given by health care providers. Montana’s Department of Public Health and Human Services could enforce the ban. The Department of Labor and Industry could take action against a health care provider’s license for violating it. The ban would take effect on the certification date. The health director would have to submit certification within 15 days of aluminum-free vaccines becoming available for human use.

Vaccine manufacturers and distributors would submit plans to remove vaccines containing aluminum and distribute aluminum-free vaccines. Montana’s Department of Public Health and Human Services would notify vaccine manufacturers, distributors, and health care providers of the requirements. Plans would cover removal from Montana stores, pharmacies, and health care establishments, plus distribution of aluminum-free vaccines to pharmacies and health care providers. Each plan would include a reasonable compliance timeline of no more than 90 days. Planning rules would take effect upon passage and approval. The health department would send notices within 30 days, and manufacturers and distributors would submit plans within one year.