Gov. Walz signs executive order to protect access to vaccines across Minnesota

ST. PAUL (KVRR) — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is taking action after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. changed recommendations to limit vaccine access.

Walz has signed an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access.

MDH will also work with partner agencies to identify and remove barriers to access.

The executive order also directs the state epidemiologist to issue a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine.

He says that will provide greater flexibility for health care providers and pharmacists to provide the vaccine.

Walz says 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,” said Walz.

“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 Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “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.”