Photo: Mufid Majnun on Unsplash.com

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - September 11, 2025

In response to recent federal actions regarding vaccine availability, Governor Walz has issued an executive order aimed at safeguarding vaccine access within the state. The order directs the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to take steps to ensure continued access to immunizations, including issuing a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine. This action follows what the governor's office describes as moves by United States Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to restrict vaccine availability at the federal level.

Additionally, the order directs state agencies to work with independent boards, insurers, healthcare providers, and patients to support access to and accurate information about all available vaccines. A press release from the Office of Governor Walz states that in Minnesota, pharmacists can already administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccines to patients aged three and older without a separate prescription, a process that "does not rely on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices' recommendations."

Governor Walz said, "Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine. 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 Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham also provided a statement in the release, highlighting the state's readiness while acknowledging potential challenges. "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 Dr. Cunningham. She added, "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."