On Friday, Governor Kathy Hochul expanded access to COVID vaccines throughout New York, taking a political swipe at Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding federal immunization policies.
This initiative “ensures that all eligible New Yorkers—children, pregnant individuals, and healthy adults under 65—can easily receive COVID vaccinations at local pharmacies,” according to a statement from Hochul’s office.
Hochul characterized her decision as part of a broader fight against what she called “the Trump administration’s misguided approach to vaccinations and healthcare.”
She explained that “given the imminent risk to the availability of COVID shots, I will sign an executive order today that empowers pharmacists to administer the vaccine, ensuring access for all New Yorkers willing to be vaccinated,” the office continued.
“In the face of federal challenges to science and healthcare, Gov. Hochul is taking proactive steps to secure vaccine access across the state,” the statement remarked.
Earlier in May, the HHS secretary had declared that the COVID-19 vaccine would no longer be recommended for healthy children and those who are pregnant.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding HHS guidelines, various pharmacies have reported limitations in vaccine access, suggesting that prescriptions may be necessary or differing based on individual circumstances.
Hochul’s executive order is set to remain in effect for a minimum of 30 days, with plans for “long-term legislative solutions” to enhance access to all vaccines.
This measure also allows pharmacists to prescribe and manage COVID booster shots, including for young children.
“I’ve committed to fighting for New Yorkers and their families. Without support from federal leaders, we must ensure that New Yorkers can access the vaccines and preventive care they need,” Hochul stated.
“By enacting this executive order, when Washington Republicans politicize public health, New Yorkers are sending a clear message: they can receive care from trusted providers in their own communities,” she emphasized.
Dr. James McDonald, New York State Health Director, confirmed that pharmacists will have timely access to vaccines statewide.
In the coming days, McDonald and the health department plan to provide detailed guidance for pharmacies, clinicians, and other vaccine distributors.
During a tense three-hour hearing with the bipartisan Senate Treasury Committee on Thursday, lawmakers questioned Kennedy regarding access issues tied to new COVID vaccine regulations and staffing changes within the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for Disease Control and Prevention.
Currently, the FDA has only authorized updated shots for older and high-risk Americans. The CDC’s vaccine advisory panel is scheduled to convene on September 18 to discuss broader guidelines.
In a heated moment, Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) criticized Kennedy for the rejection faced by Americans in need of the COVID vaccine.
Kennedy claimed pharmacies provide free access to the COVID vaccine, though others clarified that availability can be inconsistent due to vague federal regulations.
He also stated that he aimed to eliminate politics from the decisions surrounding federal vaccine schedules, following moves to alter the membership of ACIP.
