Maryland to chart independent vaccine guidance under new 'Vax Act' – KATU

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by John Gonzalez
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (7News) — Maryland is preparing for a major shift in how it determines vaccine recommendations and other preventive health guidelines, after Governor Wes Moore signed a new law that state officials say will move Maryland away from reliance on federal guidance, including recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Starting July 1, under what the administration is calling the “Vax Act,” the state will begin charting its own course on immunizations, screenings, and other preventive health services. The law grants the state health secretary expanded authority to determine which vaccines and preventive services are recommended in Maryland.
State officials said the goal is to allow Maryland to respond more directly to emerging science and public health needs, rather than defaulting to federal recommendations.
Moore defended the move, saying, “Maryland’s vaccine policy will be led by science.”
Under the new framework, Maryland will still consult major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, for guidance. The state also says insurance providers will be required to continue covering any vaccines that are ultimately approved under Maryland’s system.
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Supporters of the law argue it gives the state more flexibility in shaping public health policy, particularly in the wake of recent changes to federal recommendations on routine childhood immunizations.
Critics, however, warn that the shift could create confusion for families and health care providers if state and federal guidance diverge. Some also question whether moving away from the CDC as the primary reference point could lead to mixed messaging on public health decisions.
Others are raising concerns about which outside medical organizations will ultimately carry the most influence in shaping Maryland’s vaccine policy moving forward.
The change is set to take effect July 1, marking a significant shift in how the state approaches vaccine guidance and public health recommendations.
7News will continue to follow this developing story.
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