States go their own way as RFK Jr. shifts federal vaccine policy
3 minute readPublished: Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 3:10 pm
States Push Back Against Federal Vaccine Policy Shift
A new federal directive to reduce the number of recommended childhood vaccines is facing significant resistance from numerous states. The federal government, under a directive issued in December, aims to align the U.S. vaccination schedule with countries like Denmark, which recommend fewer vaccines. However, at least 17 states have already announced they will not adhere to the new federal guidelines.
This shift has sparked a wave of independent action by states, with many forming alliances to share health information and develop their own vaccine policies. The Northeast Public Health Collaborative, representing several states and New York City, has declared it will continue to follow the guidance of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The Governors Public Health Alliance, composed of 14 states, has also voiced concerns, citing potential confusion and barriers for families.
New Jersey is a prime example of this trend. The state's Department of Health is moving to decouple its vaccine recommendations from federal rules, allowing for independent decision-making based on expert advice. This move includes legislation to ensure insurance coverage for vaccines, regardless of federal recommendations.
The changes are impacting states where school vaccination requirements, insurance coverage, and pharmacist vaccination rules are tied to federal guidelines. Some states are establishing their own advisory committees to make vaccine recommendations. The new federal guidelines continue to suggest 11 vaccines for all children, but offer more flexibility for six others, recommending them only for high-risk groups or through shared clinical decision-making.
BNN's Perspective:
While the push for greater flexibility in vaccine recommendations may appeal to some, it's crucial to balance individual choice with the established scientific consensus on the importance of vaccines for public health. The potential for confusion and reduced vaccination rates, as seen in the past with shared decision-making for COVID-19 vaccines, warrants careful consideration. States should prioritize evidence-based decision-making and ensure access to accurate information to maintain high vaccination rates and protect communities.
Keywords: vaccines, childhood vaccines, federal guidelines, state policy, immunization, public health, American Academy of Pediatrics, CDC, New Jersey, insurance coverage, school requirements, shared decision-making.