New York governor Kathy Hochul, announced Thursday that she will sign an executive order that allows pharmacists to prescribe and manage COVID-19 vaccines, saying that she will allow New Yorkers to take “their own medical care decisions.”
The announcement occurs after the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., faced the Senate Finance Committee of the Senate Finance Committee of Republican and Democratic legislators.
“Following a relentless uncertainty and political attacks against science that leave Washington, Governor Hochul is taking measures to protect New York. She will sign an executive order that allows pharmacists to prescribe and administer COVID-19 vaccines, so that families who wish protection can get it quick Portabardero of Governor of Hochul. “This temporal order will guarantee fluid access while the governor works with the legislature on a long -term solution to safeguard access to preventive care and vaccines.”
On Thursday during his audience, Kennedy said that anyone can get COVID-19 vaccines in their pharmacy for free, however, pharmacies are being selective due to the limbo of federal regulations.
New York, New York – August 18: New York Governor Kathy Hochul arrives for a press conference on federal cuts to medical care at Lincoln Hospital on August 18, 2025 in New York City.
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The FDA has approved the updated shots only for major and high -risk Americans, and the CDC vaccine panel will meet to discuss possible recommendations in a few weeks.
In the midst of regulatory uncertainty, some pharmacies have said that access to shooting can vary the State by state and may require a recipe.
“By signing this EO, Governor Hochul is making it clear that when Washington’s Republicans play politics with public health, New Yorkers can still make their own medical care decisions and get the attention they need confidence suppliers in their community,” said Governor Hochul spokesman.
Kennedy’s audition, which lasted almost three hours, was often controversial since it was roasted in everything, from the availability of vaccines to their staff shaking in the CDC. Several Republicans in the panel expressed concern about vaccines, while the Democrats accused Kennedy of breaking the promises he did during his confirmation audience in January.
