Earlier this week, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access in the state in response to federal actions restricting vaccine availability. The order also directs the state epidemiologist to issue a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine.

The order was issued to allow for greater flexibility for health care providers and pharmacists to provide the vaccine.

“Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine,” Walz said in his press release. “While the Trump Administration attempts to limit Americans’ access to preventative care, Minnesota will be guided by science and medical expertise, prioritizing the health and safety of our people.” 

Of course, the governor’s comments are directed to the confusion recently sowed by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He recently released a 20-page report that echoes many of his talking points supporting anti-vaccine policies.

Kennedy, also this week, was grilled by U.S. senators on his policies during a hearing in Washington, D.C.

Tina Smith (D-Minn.) joined a chorus of senators on both sides of the aisle, scolding Kennedy, saying she was done with “your denials and your evasion and your lies.”

Fueling the fury over Kennedy’s handling of America’s health policies was the firing of CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez for not falling in line with his new handpicked board of vaccine skeptics.

No doubt, confidence is now lacking in the federal government’s guidance of medical issues and states will have to step in to assist their citizens to get access to COVID-19 vaccines.

“Minnesota is in a stronger position than most states to handle the loss of federal vaccine support, thanks to years of work by MDH and our partners,” said Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “Still, the scale of these cuts will likely lead to changes that affect Minnesotans. We don’t yet know what those changes will be, but MDH will keep a close eye on the situation, work to protect vaccine access, and stay closely connected with our public health partners.” 

While some Minnesota residents will not bother with getting the COVID-19 vaccine, we support Walz’s executive order. Due to age and medical conditions, many residents need and want that protection. They should be able go to their health care provider or pharmacist and obtain the vaccine with little cost.