Governor Hochul extends executive order to guarantee every New Yorker continued access to the updated 2025–26 COVID vaccine

New York – In a decisive move to preserve vaccine accessibility amid what she described as ongoing “federal obstruction,” Governor Kathy Hochul announced the extension of Executive Order 52, ensuring that all New Yorkers can continue receiving the updated 2025–26 COVID-19 vaccine from local pharmacies and health providers. The order, originally issued to expand vaccination options across the state, will remain in effect for at least another 30 days as state officials work on a long-term legislative plan to safeguard public health access.

Governor Hochul’s extension comes at a time of heightened concern over what state officials see as the Trump administration’s continued efforts to undermine health care programs, including those designed to make vaccines widely available. The executive order allows pharmacists to keep administering COVID-19 vaccines without interruption, providing a lifeline for families seeking convenient and trusted options for vaccination.

“As the Trump administration continues to attack access to health care, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an extension of Executive Order 52, which allows pharmacists to continue administering COVID vaccines, providing access for all New Yorkers who wish to be vaccinated,” the Governor’s office said in a statement announcing the decision.

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In addition to renewing the executive order, Governor Hochul urged federal authorities to include COVID-19 vaccines in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides free immunizations to eligible children, including those without insurance. Currently, the Trump administration has not authorized states to order COVID-19 vaccines through the VFC program — a delay Hochul says is “putting the health of millions of children at risk.”

“I’ve been clear with New Yorkers that even as Washington continues its misguided campaign against science, I will always do what I can to ensure New Yorkers have access to the vaccines and information families need to make decisions about their health care — with no exceptions,” Governor Hochul said. “I will sign as many extensions of this executive order as I need to. We will always let science lead the way — not politics.”

To address potential gaps in vaccine availability for children, the Governor has directed the New York State Department of Health (DOH) to explore additional solutions that would guarantee access for all families, particularly those with uninsured or underinsured children. Hochul emphasized that the state’s actions are grounded in science and public health, not political convenience.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald praised the Governor’s leadership, noting that her quick action ensures no interruption in access to the updated vaccine. “Governor Hochul’s swift action ensures that every eligible New Yorker will continue to have access to the updated COVID-19 vaccine. As we call on the federal government to make this vaccine available through the Vaccines for Children program, the Department will keep working to remove barriers and protect families’ access to lifesaving immunization. Vaccines save lives, and we will always stand with New Yorkers to safeguard their health,” Dr. McDonald said.

The renewed executive order is part of Governor Hochul’s broader public health strategy — one that emphasizes long-term protection against infectious diseases through sustained access to immunizations. Her administration is now working closely with state legislators to craft a permanent solution that ensures continuous vaccine accessibility, including coverage by health insurance and authorization for a wide range of healthcare professionals to administer vaccines.

New York’s vaccination policy also benefits from a regional collaboration among Northeastern states, which share resources and expertise on disease prevention and emergency preparedness. This partnership brings together public health experts to create evidence-based guidelines for vaccination, surveillance, and response efforts. The collaboration also strengthens communication among state laboratories and improves regional readiness for future public health emergencies.

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Just last month, Commissioner McDonald issued a standing order that remains in effect, allowing pharmacists throughout the state to continue offering COVID-19 vaccinations without delay. The Department of Health is also providing guidance and logistical support to pharmacies, clinics, and healthcare providers to streamline vaccine distribution and recordkeeping.

Governor Hochul’s administration has made it clear that New York will not back down in the face of federal inaction. By maintaining local control over vaccine distribution and expanding state authority where necessary, officials say they are ensuring New Yorkers retain the freedom to make informed, science-based health decisions.

Public health advocates have welcomed the Governor’s extension, calling it a practical and necessary measure to maintain immunization rates as the updated 2025–26 vaccine becomes more widely available. Many pharmacies and community clinics have already begun offering the shot, helping protect residents as new variants continue to circulate.

For Hochul, the message remains consistent — New York will keep leading by example when it comes to science, safety, and public health. As she put it plainly, the state’s approach is about ensuring fairness and accessibility: “We will always let science lead the way — not politics.”