Walz issues executive order directing health department to continue protecting vaccine access.
Governor Tim Walz today issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access in Minnesota in response to federal actions restricting vaccine availability at the federal level. The executive order also directs the state epidemiologist to issue a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine, which would provide greater flexibility for health care providers and pharmacists to provide the vaccine.
“Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine,” said Governor Walz. “While the Trump Administration attempts to limit Americans’ access to preventative care, Minnesota will be guided by science and medical expertise, prioritizing the health and safety of our people.”
“Minnesota is in a stronger position than most states to handle the loss of federal vaccine support, thanks to years of work by MDH and our partners,” said Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “Still, the scale of these cuts will likely lead to changes that affect Minnesotans. We don’t yet know what those changes will be, but MDH will keep a close eye on the situation, work to protect vaccine access, and stay closely connected with our public health partners.”
The executive order follows moves by United States Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to change recommendations to limit vaccine access; upend years of vaccine research; and throw the Centers for Disease Control leadership into chaos.
The order directs state agencies to work collaboratively across the state enterprise, with independent boards, and with insurers, health care providers, and patients to support access to, and accurate information about, all available vaccines. Unlike many other states, pharmacists in Minnesota can administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccines according to the FDA license to patients three and up without a separate prescription. This process does not rely on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations. COVID-19 vaccines are becoming available for people at clinics and pharmacies and there should be increasing availability over the next several weeks.
The order also directs MDH to take steps to continue protecting vaccine access by issuing a standing order or protocol for the COVID-19 vaccine, and monitoring whether similar measures are needed for other routine vaccines. The standing order would expand access to the COVID vaccine despite federal limitations. MDH will also work with partner agencies to identify and remove barriers to access, while providing clear guidance to providers, insurers, and the public on vaccine safety, effectiveness, and availability.