He says it will protect Marylanders’ access to vaccines.
Gov Wes Moore
Annapolis, Md (KM) Governor Wes Moore has announced that the Vax Act will be part of his legislative agenda for the 2026 Maryland General Assembly. In a statement, Moore says this is in direct response to the Trump Administration’s efforts to discourage access to vaccines and undermine trust in vaccine science.
“The federal government’s rapid shift and the unnecessary confusion surrounding vaccine policy put public health at risk. In Maryland, we will continue to protect our people by ensuring our guidance is driven by proven science not political headwinds,” says Governor Moore, in a statement. “Our legislation reflects a simple belief: access to life saving medicines like vaccines is essential to the health and safety of every Marylander.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on January 5th the number of recommended vaccines for children has been reduced from 18 to 11.
The Governor’s bill. establishes new authority for Maryland’s Secretary of Health to issue recommendations on immunizations based on science and clinical guidance .It also separates the State’s vaccine authority from that of the federal government. Under this legislation, the Maryland Secretary of Health will take into account authorized medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Colleges of Obstetrics and Gynecology when it comes to recommendations about vaccines.
The proposed legislation also ensures insurance coverage and pharmacist administration of vaccines.
By Kevin McManus