New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Thursday that she will sign an executive order permitting pharmacists to prescribe and administer COVID-19 vaccines. This decision aims to empower New Yorkers to make their own healthcare choices. The announcement follows a Senate Finance Committee hearing where Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced intense questioning from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers.

A spokesperson for Governor Hochul stated, "In the wake of relentless uncertainty and political attacks on science coming out of Washington, Governor Hochul is taking action to protect New Yorkers. She will sign an Executive Order allowing pharmacists to prescribe and administer COVID-19 vaccines, so families who want protection can get it quickly, safely, and close to home."

The executive order is intended to provide immediate access to vaccines while the governor collaborates with the Legislature on a long-term strategy to ensure continued access to preventive care and vaccines. During the Senate hearing, Kennedy asserted that anyone can receive COVID-19 vaccines at their pharmacy for free. However, he noted that pharmacies are being selective due to ongoing federal regulatory uncertainties.

Currently, the FDA has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines only for older adults and high-risk individuals. The CDC vaccine panel is scheduled to meet in the coming weeks to discuss further recommendations. Amid this regulatory ambiguity, some pharmacies have indicated that access to vaccines may differ from state to state and could require a prescription.

The spokesperson for Governor Hochul emphasized, "By signing this EO, Governor Hochul is making it clear that when Washington Republicans play politics with public health, New Yorkers will still be able to make their own health care decisions and get the care they need from trusted providers in their community."

Kennedy's nearly three-hour hearing was marked by contentious exchanges. Lawmakers questioned him on various topics, including vaccine availability and recent staffing changes at the CDC. Several Republicans expressed concerns regarding vaccines, while Democrats accused Kennedy of failing to uphold commitments made during his confirmation hearing in January.