NJ Removes COVID-19 Vaccine Restrictions Despite FDA Rules

NEW JERSEY — Restrictions surrounding COVID-19 vaccines have been removed in New Jersey despite a recent change to federal rules.

"At a time when COVID-19 cases are increasing across the country and as part of my Administration’s dedication to evidence-based public health action, I am committed to ensuring everyone in New Jersey who wants to receive a COVID-19 vaccination can receive a dose this fall from trusted health professionals," said Governor Phil Murphy.

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) issued Executive Directive No. 25-003, allowing anyone six months of age and older to receive a COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 respiratory illness season.

Additionally, a Standing Order was also issued by the NJDOH authorizing pharmacists in New Jersey to administer COVID-19 immunizations without a prescription.

These directives issued on Tuesday night are in opposition to the Trump Adminsitration's U.S. Food and Drug Administration(FDA)'s latest policy on COVID-19 vaccines to narrow its use to only individuals 65 years and over or those with certain underlying medical conditions

The changes, which were announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. via social media, which State officials said "bypassed the normal scientific review process, creating confusion and uncertainty, especially because they conflicted with previous CDC recommendations."

"New Jersey is committed to defending the principles that safeguard our families and protect the health of our communities. This is about equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine, which has been proven to prevent serious illness and hospitalization," said Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown. "Especially as we enter cold and flu season and as students head back-to-school, New Jerseyans are reminded to stay up to date on all recommended vaccinations."

Under the Executive Directive signed by Brown, all individuals six months of age and older can receive a COVID-19 vaccine, eliminating barriers to access following these recent changes at the federal level.

State officials went on to say that the Executive Directive is based on clear, scientific, and evidence-based recommendations from trusted medical professionals and organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the Vaccine Integrity Project at the University of Minnesota.

"While COVID-19 has become part of our lives, we still have effective tools to minimize outbreaks and reduce the risk of serious complications," said Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Services Novneet Sahu. "Vaccines remain our strongest defense, helping to limit the spread of the virus, protecting individuals and communities, and reducing broader social impacts such as missed school and work, and reducing pressure on our health care systems."