In a direct challenge to federal restrictions, Maine Governor Janet Mills issued an executive order on Friday authorizing healthcare providers, including pharmacists, to administer the updated COVID-19 vaccine to all residents without a prescription. This move directly contradicts the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) revised guidance, which limits eligibility to individuals 65 and older and those with high-risk conditions, a significant departure from previous broader guidelines.
Governor Mills's decision stems from concerns over limited vaccine access under the current federal regulations and is supported by new recommendations from the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC). The Maine CDC now advises vaccination for children aged 6 to 23 months, children aged 2 to 18 with specific risk factors, and all adults 18 and older, including pregnant individuals, those with compromised immune systems, and those with underlying health conditions. The Governor's statement underscored her commitment to ensuring Mainers have access to essential healthcare, even in the face of opposing federal policies.
The state is ensuring financial accessibility as well. MaineCare, the state's Medicaid program, will cover the cost of vaccination for enrolled members, and private insurance companies are mandated to cover the vaccine without cost-sharing or prior authorization. This action mirrors a similar initiative taken by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, signifying a broader northeastern states' effort to maintain vaccine availability amid federal restrictions.
Despite this proactive measure, concerns persist regarding the availability of pediatric vaccines. While many pharmacies are working to stock the vaccine, the supply of pediatric doses from the federal Vaccines for Children program remains uncertain. Dr. Laura Blaisdell, a pediatrician and board member of Maine Families for Vaccines, emphasized the current lack of pediatric vaccines in Maine practices, highlighting the dependence on federal supply releases.
The situation is further complicated by the recent changes in federal leadership regarding vaccine policies. These changes, attributed to political influence over scientific guidance, have raised concerns about the future of vaccination programs. The upcoming meeting of the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices on September 18-19 is crucial, as it could determine the release of pediatric vaccine supplies to states.
Experts like Dr. Blaisdell stress the importance of the federal government releasing the necessary supplies to support the state's efforts to administer the vaccines. Organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology have publicly supported continued vaccination for vulnerable populations, underscoring the importance of the Maine CDC's decision in light of the conflicting federal guidance. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between state and federal health policies and underscores the need for clear and consistent messaging regarding COVID-19 vaccination.
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Originally published at: https://www.pressherald.com/2025/09/12/gov-mills-authorizes-maine-doctors-to-administer-this-years-covid-19-vaccine/
