New York’s Governor Hochul Extends COVID Vaccine Access Amid Federal Delays

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the extension of Executive Order 52, ensuring access to the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccinations. This decision allows pharmacies across New York to continue administering vaccinations, addressing ongoing public health needs amid delays in federal health policy.

State Action Amid Federal Inaction

The extension of this executive order allows pharmacists to provide the life-saving vaccines for at least another month, with hopes for a more permanent legislative solution. Governor Hochul’s directive comes at a critical time as the federal government has not yet included the COVID-19 vaccine in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which offers free vaccines to eligible children. The delay in federal guidelines and resources threatens the health of many, particularly the youngest populations.

In a statement from the Governor’s Office, Hochul emphasized the urgency of the matter: “I will always do what I can to ensure New Yorkers have access to the vaccines and information families need to make decisions about their health care — with no exceptions.” She indicated her commitment to renewing the executive order as often as necessary, prioritizing scientific guidance over political considerations.

Support from Health Officials and Regional Collaboration

Backing the Governor’s initiative, Dr. James McDonald, the New York State Health Commissioner, issued a standing order for the COVID vaccine. This order facilitates the seamless distribution of vaccines by pharmacies throughout the state, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing public access and convenience.

Dr. McDonald stated, “Vaccines save lives, and we will always stand with New Yorkers to safeguard their health.” His remarks underscore the importance of maintaining vaccination efforts during this period of heightened demand.

New York is not addressing this public health challenge in isolation. A collaboration of Northeastern states is forming a multi-state public health initiative aimed at synchronizing vaccination efforts and disease surveillance. This cooperative approach illustrates a unified response to combating COVID-19 and enhancing public health infrastructure across the region.

This health-oriented alliance also seeks to improve state public health laboratories, ensuring that resources to combat any pandemic are both plentiful and shared. Through these efforts, New York is taking proactive measures to safeguard the health of its residents while urging federal authorities to act decisively on vaccine distribution.