The William S. Hart Union High School District was informed this week by Los Angeles County Health officials of a proposed extension allowing parents 30 days from the start of school before meeting the new immunization requirements.

The new school immunization law requires all students entering 7th through 12th grades in the 2011-2012 school year in California to be immunized with a pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine booster called Tdap.

On Thursday the state legislature passed a bill providing a 30 day grace period. The bill now sits on Governor Jerry Brown’s desk for approval.

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“We are moving forward with our outreach efforts and goal to secure proof of the Tdap immunization from our students by the first day of school, however, if signed by the Governor, this will allow us a little extra time to ensure we are in full compliance within the law,” said Gail Pinsker, Hart District Community Liaison Officer.

Until Governor Brown’s signature, the district says they are still using the first day of school as the mandate.

District officials say a free Tdap shot clinic is being planned for later this month or the first week of August.

Information on the Hart District’s immunization policy can be found by clicking here.