Several health-related bills that could impact older adults are winding their way through the Arizona Legislature — measures like vaccine mandates and religious exemptions, an Alzheimer’s state plan and changes in yearly nursing home inspections. 

Republican Sen. Janae Shamp’s bill on vaccines and religious exemptions would apply to COVID-19, influenza and any other vaccine approved for emergency use.

"So, I sit here today as the champion for religious freedom, personal beliefs and observances from vaccines and any mandated medical treatment." 

Members of the public broke out into applause after Shamp spoke, though Republican Sen. TJ Shope asked them to refrain from doing so. 

Senate bill would require employers to allow employees that complete a religious exemption form to opt out of vaccination.

It could also apply to nursing home workers who often care for medically fragile seniors. 

Another measure would allow a third party to perform long-term care inspections instead of the Arizona Department of Health Services. Republican Sen. Steve Kaiser’s plan would strip funding from DHS and go towards the bidding process. 

"They clearly can't do the job," he said. "They're not going to be able to do the job. And our seniors are going to continue to suffer under abuse and neglect."

There was also a bill that requires DHS to develop a “dementia services program” and update the Alzheimer’s state plan. Lawmakers heard from Leaonard Chayrez, who shared the challenges of getting a diagnosis.

"It took over three and a half years for me to finally get the initial [diagnosis] mild cognitive impairment," said Chayrez.

The bill received full support from the members of the committee. It now moves to the full Senate.