Overview
In 2021, Connecticut lawmakers eliminated the religious exemption for school and daycare vaccinations.
That change made Connecticut one of the hardest states in the country for parents who choose a different vaccine path.
Yet Crew parents here continue to live freely, educate their children, and make independent medical decisions.
This guide explains the current law, your practical options, and how other Connecticut families are navigating the landscape.
The Law in Brief
Connecticut General Statute §10-204a requires vaccination for public and private school enrollment.
Since 2021, new students (kindergarten and up) can no longer claim a religious exemption.
Existing students who filed valid exemptions before April 28, 2021 may continue using them until graduation from their current school level (e.g., through grade 12).
For younger children and new enrollees, only medical exemptions signed by a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse are accepted — but in reality, these are nearly impossible to obtain because granting one can put a clinician’s career in danger under Connecticut’s current political and medical climate.
Where Parents Still Have Choice
Even with the exemption removed, families have options:
- Homeschooling – Fully outside the state vaccine law.
- Private tutors / micro-schools – Also outside the vaccination statute if not state-accredited.
- Out-of-state or cash-based care – Some families cross into neighboring states (MA, NY, RI) for open-minded pediatric or family-practice care.
- Independent and telehealth physicians – A few practitioners quietly respect parental sovereignty once a relationship is established.
