Maryland has officially joined a coalition of Northeast states to enhance public health initiatives and establish independent vaccine recommendations. This decision comes in response to significant changes proposed by the Trump administration, specifically under the direction of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr..
The newly formed Northeast Public Health Collaborative includes Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Maryland’s Health Department stated that the coalition aims to “make decisions based on scientific evidence and strive to ensure equitable access to quality health care.”
Response to Federal Vaccine Policy Changes
The collaborative mirrors the West Coast Health Alliance, which comprises Democratic-led states that previously issued their own vaccine guidelines. These recommendations extend beyond the federal directives introduced by Kennedy and his allies this year.
In June, Kennedy dismissed all members of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) panel of vaccine experts, which plays a crucial role in determining vaccination schedules and recommendations. Additionally, he recently terminated CDC Director Susan Monarez, leading to a wave of resignations among senior officials and sparking a contentious Senate hearing where lawmakers scrutinized his decisions.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the collaborative states have collectively decided to recommend updated COVID-19 booster shots for children, alongside seniors and individuals with compromised immune systems. This recommendation aligns closely with prior federal guidelines established during the administration of former President Joe Biden.
The initiative follows the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s approval of updated COVID-19 vaccine guidelines specifically for seniors and those with weakened immune systems. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now advises that individuals interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine should first consult with their healthcare providers.
Maryland’s Legislative Efforts to Safeguard Vaccine Access
Before joining this collaborative effort, Maryland Governor Wes Moore prioritized the protection of vaccine access in his state. In May, he signed legislation requiring insurers to cover vaccinations recommended by the CDC’s panel of vaccine experts, effective December 2024. This law was implemented on June 1, ensuring that Maryland would maintain its vaccination standards despite any potential shifts in federal policy driven by Kennedy.
The establishment of the Northeast Public Health Collaborative marks a significant development in the ongoing debates surrounding public health and vaccine accessibility. As states unite to advocate for scientifically supported health measures, the implications for vaccine policy across the United States remain to be seen. This coalition aims to prioritize health equity and access in a rapidly changing public health landscape.
