The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has significantly reduced the number of recommended childhood immunizations, prompting states to take independent action to maintain vaccine access for their residents [KFF Health News].
Colorado has emerged as a leader in state-level vaccine policy reform, updating its laws to ensure continued access to COVID-19 vaccines and other immunizations. The state began revamping its vaccine policies last spring in anticipation of potential federal changes under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has taken steps both supporting and undermining vaccination as a public health tool [NPR].
According to NPR reporting, "While Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., dismantles the federal institutions that set vaccine policy, states like Colorado are changing laws and regulations in an effort to preserve access to vaccines."
The policy changes come as measles cases have returned to the United States after the disease was previously eliminated. Canada lost its measles-free status in November, raising concerns about similar risks for the U.S. [US News].
Public health organizations are responding with coordinated resistance efforts. The American Public Health Association has organized advocacy campaigns, stating that "Trump-RFK Jr.'s new vaccine schedule puts families at risk" and calling the changes "health policy malpractice at the highest level" [APHA].
The California Department of Public Health, working with the West Coast Health Alliance, issued statements defending scientific evidence that vaccines are not linked to autism, following changes to the CDC's autism and vaccines webpage [California Department of Public Health].
Despite the federal rollbacks, some states are maintaining strong vaccination programs. California's kindergarten immunization rates remain higher than the national average, according to the state's annual vaccination report [CDPH].
Public health leaders convened in Washington, D.C. this week to defend their vision for America's health and strategize rebuilding efforts. The American Public Health Association held a "Rally for the Public's Health" where speakers shared stories and calls to action, reinforcing that "protecting the public's health is not optional, it's essential" [APHA].
The controversy extends beyond vaccines to broader public health infrastructure. Leading medical and public health groups have requested transparency and evidence behind changes to Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations in court hearings [APHA].
Meanwhile, other health policy changes are creating additional challenges. New Medicaid eligibility rules could make coverage harder to maintain, potentially affecting care across the health system [US News]. Hospital systems are also preparing for potential impacts from changes to Affordable Care Act subsidies.
As federal agencies face restructuring, state health departments and advocacy organizations are positioning themselves as the primary defenders of established public health practices. The divergence between federal and state approaches represents a significant shift in how vaccination and public health policies may be implemented across different jurisdictions.
The situation continues to evolve as Congress works to finalize remaining fiscal year 2026 spending bills, including funding for health and human services programs.