Colorado lawmakers are split over mandatory immunizations for children.

A spokesman for Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., said he supports a mandatory measles vaccination for children.

"Based on the science and concerns for public health, Sen. Bennet thinks there should be a legal requirement to vaccinate children against the measles," a spokesman for the senator told The Cortez Journal.

Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Colo., said the decision to vaccinate children should remain with their parents.

"The medical and scientific community overwhelmingly concludes that vaccinations are safe and effective for preventing disease," a spokesman said. "Congressman Tipton believes that children should be vaccinated but doesn't believe it's the role of the federal government to force parents and their children's physicians to do so."

Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., didn't not respond Friday to a request for comment.