(1) A prospective pupil seeking to attend school is exempt from all or part of the immunization requirements if the parent or guardian of that prospective pupil, an adult responsible for that prospective pupil, or the prospective pupil if an adult or an emancipated minor, objects thereto in a signed, written statement indicating that the proposed immunization interferes with the free exercise of the religious beliefs of the person signing the statement.

(2) In any school other than a postsecondary school, a claim of exemption from immunization requirements on religious grounds must be notarized annually and maintained on a form HES 113, Affidavit of Exemption on Religious Grounds, provided by the department. The form must be provided to the school prior to each school year by the parent, guardian or adult responsible for the pupil. If the pupil is 18 years of age or older or emancipated, the pupil may claim the exemption.

(1) When a parent, guardian, or adult who has the responsibility for the care and custody of a minor seeking to attend school or the person seeking to attend school, if an adult, signs and files with the governing authority, prior to the commencement of attendance each school year, a notarized affidavit on a form prescribed by the department stating that immunization is contrary to the religious tenets and practices of the signer, immunization of the person seeking to attend the school may not be required prior to attendance at the school. The statement must be maintained as part of the person’s immunization records. A person who falsely claims a religious exemption is subject to the penalty for false swearing provided in 45-7-202.

This page provides information and resources on immunization rules and laws in Montana, including certification and exemption forms.