State Rep. Steven Johnson, in the middle of his second two-year term in Lansing, has introduced a House bill that would support foster parents whose biological children are not completely vaccinated.

Johnson, who represents the cities of Wayland and Kentwood and the townships of Gaines, Wayland, Dorr and Leighton in the 72^nd District, said the bill, if made into law, would end discrimination against foster parents

“There is a well-documented foster home shortage in Michigan,” Johnson said in his newsletter. “The number of foster children is greater than there are homes available for placement, and the number grows every day. That is why I have introduced bipartisan legislation that would prevent the state from discriminating against foster parents who do not vaccinate their own biological children.”

State authorities currently will not place foster children, from infancy through the age of 7, with families whose biological children are not completely vaccinated.

“This policy has prevented many families across the state from providing foster care, which is a contributing factor to the growing shortage in foster homes,” Johnson said.

“I’m pleased to see that my colleagues from both sides of the aisle recognize this discriminatory policy is hurting our foster families around Michigan. The state mandates that all children in the foster care system be vaccinated, so my legislation would enable more able and willing foster parents across the state to provide the loving home that foster children so desperately need.”

House Bill 4711 has been referred to the House Families, Children, and Seniors Committee for further consideration.