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from the when-you-can't-make-them-see-the-light dept.
The Center for American Progress reports
The anti-vaccine sentiments that originated with a [completely] discredited British study linking the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) shot to autism have made their way to other western countries like Australia.
According to the government agency that tracks Australia's childhood vaccination rates, the rate of kids going without their shots has doubled over the past decade.
[...]Australia has announced an aggressive new approach in this area: Cutting off government benefits to parents who refuse to inoculate their children.
Under the proposal, parents who claim philosophical objections to vaccines will no longer be eligible for welfare payments and childcare rebates that can equal up to $11,500 per child in American dollars. Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced the policy change on Sunday, although it still has to be approved by Parliament.
(Score: 4, Informative) by khallow on Tuesday April 14 2015, @10:26AM
Why not choose something that will impact everyone equally and actually be a relevant consideration.
They did.
For example, no school enrollment (public or private) without the vaccinations.
How does that inconvenience the wealthy person equally? They can still enroll their children in schools outside of Australia or home tutor them.
(Score: 3, Insightful) by sjames on Tuesday April 14 2015, @04:29PM
Arguably, that actually would address the issue if they're sent out of country or kept inside.
Though good luck crossing borders without your shots.