Multiple States Expand COVID Vaccine Access Without Prescription

Several U.S. states are expanding access to COVID-19 vaccines in response to federal restrictions under the Trump administration that have narrowed eligibility criteria. Rhode Island, Maine, North Carolina, Arizona, and New Jersey have all issued standing orders or executive actions allowing pharmacists and other healthcare providers to administer COVID vaccines without prescriptions, broadening eligibility beyond the FDA's narrowed guidelines. These states are also directing insurers to cover COVID vaccines at no cost, aligning with recommendations from major medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Governors like Dan McKee of Rhode Island and Janet Mills of Maine have emphasized the importance of removing barriers to vaccination to protect public health and prevent severe illness. North Carolina’s Gov. Josh Stein described the previous prescription requirement as unnecessary red tape, while Arizona’s Gov. Katie Hobbs highlighted vaccine access as critical for safeguarding health and alleviating healthcare system pressures. These state-level efforts reflect a pushback against federal policies to ensure broader vaccine availability amid ongoing COVID-19 risks.