STD vaccine mandate looms in Calif

A pro-family leader is calling on California's governor to veto a dangerous bill that he and other family advocates believe undermines parental authority and the safety of children.

Governor Jerry Brown has several days to decide on the fate of AB 499, a bill that would allow minors as young as 12 years of age to consent to "medical care related to the prevention of a sexually transmitted disease." The bill, introduced by Assemblywoman Toni Atkins (D), would allow children to agree to vaccines and treatments without the consent of parents, including the vaccine Gardasil.

Supporters of the bill include Planned Parenthood, NARAL Pro-Choice California, and the American Civil Liberties Union -- and opponents include Randy Thomasson, president of SaveCalifornia.com.

"Giving this to children behind parent's backs," he laments. "A child [that age] can't drive a car, or vote, or even get married -- but she can consent to this?"

Thomasson contends these vaccines pose health risks and do not cover all human papilloma virus (HPV) strains that cause cervical cancer. In addition, the vaccines are very costly -- as much as $120 per injection.

Regardless of the cost, however, Thomasson argues against the directive coming from Sacramento.

"The failure to involve a parent who can ask important questions -- and is the only one capable of providing true, informed consent -- makes this bill a virtual mandate upon all targeted teens and pre-teens," the pro-family leader summarizes.

Instead, Thomasson contends that abstinence-only education is the best way to prevent sexual intercourse and STDs among minors.

Governor Brown has until October 9 to act on the bill. He has not signaled his intent.