Walz’s New Executive Order On Vaccines: Here’s What To Know

ST. PAUL, MN — Gov. Tim Walz on Monday issued an executive order aimed at protecting vaccine access in Minnesota, following new federal guidance that restricts who can receive the updated COVID-19 booster.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration limited eligibility for the shot to people 65 and older, and those 6 months and up with at least one underlying health condition that increases their risk of severe illness.

Walz’s order pushes back by directing the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to issue a statewide standing order, giving health care providers and pharmacists more flexibility to administer the vaccine beyond those federal limits.

"Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine," said Walz. "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 said the state is better positioned than most to weather the loss of federal support but acknowledged there will still be disruptions.

"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," she said.

The order also tasks MDH with:

• Coordinating across state agencies, providers, and insurers to support access and share accurate information.
• Monitoring whether standing orders are needed for other routine vaccines.
• Identifying and removing barriers to vaccine access.
• Providing guidance on vaccine safety, effectiveness, and availability.

Walz’s action is part of a larger trend among states seeking to preserve vaccine access, MPR News reported.

New York recently declared a statewide disaster emergency to protect access to the COVID-19 vaccine.

Several states, including California and Washington, have joined regional coalitions to provide vaccine guidance, and Massachusetts has required insurers to cover vaccines recommended by the state, not just those backed by the federal government.

Unlike many states, Minnesota already allows pharmacists to administer flu and COVID vaccines to children as young as 3 without a separate prescription.

COVID-19 vaccines are beginning to arrive at clinics and pharmacies statewide, with availability expected to increase in the coming weeks.