New York is taking emergency action to keep COVID vaccines available as federal delays and policy changes threaten access for many residents.
On Thursday, Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order allowing pharmacists across the state to prescribe and administer COVID vaccines to anyone age 3 and up — a move aimed at filling the gap left by stalled federal guidance.
The order comes after recent shakeups in Washington, including the removal of pro-vaccine experts from a key federal advisory panel and the withdrawal of over $500 million in mRNA vaccine funding. As a result, many New York pharmacies had started limiting vaccine access — especially for children, pregnant people, and healthy adults under 65.
“New Yorkers can still get the care they need, close to home, from trusted providers in their own communities,” Governor Hochul said. “When Washington Republicans play politics with public health, we step up.”
The order immediately expands who can prescribe and give COVID shots:
- Physicians and nurse practitioners can now issue both patient-specific and standing orders.
- Pharmacists can give vaccines to patients age 3 or older — and for the first time, prescribe them too.
- All groups, including those previously restricted, are now eligible for vaccination at local pharmacies.
Dr. James McDonald, the state’s Health Commissioner, called the move “a vital step” for ensuring New Yorkers can receive the updated 2025-26 COVID vaccine without delay.
New York’s emergency declaration will last at least 30 days while lawmakers work on a long-term solution. The state is also leading a regional public health partnership with other Northeast states to build consistent vaccine policies and better emergency preparedness.
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