State Can Fine Doctors

New Jersey officials now have some muscle to control the flu vaccine shortage.

Gov. James McGreevey has signed into law emergency legislation that would fine doctors $500 if they inoculate low-risk people.

The measure also gives state Health Commissioner Clifton Lacy the power to assess available doses and establish a plan to get the shots to those in at-risk groups.

No cases of the flu have been reported in New Jersey. But the national shortage has led to long lines or some towns running flu shot lotteries.

The very young, the very old, pregnant women and those who are chronically ill are considered high risk.

Author: NBC10/AP