Executive Order Protects COVID-19 Vaccine Access
On September 5, 2025, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul issued an Executive Order declaring a Statewide Disaster Emergency to protect access to COVID-19 vaccines in New York, following recent federal actions that have threatened vaccine access. This order is currently effective through October 5, 2025.
Key provisions of the Executive Order expand vaccine access by enacting the following in New York State:
- Physicians and nurse practitioners may issue patient-specific or non-patient-specific orders authorizing pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines to people aged three (3) and older.
- Pharmacists are authorized to prescribe and administer COVID-19 vaccines for people aged three (3) and older.
- A statewide standing order will be issued by the New York State Commissioner of Health to support timely access across pharmacies.
Together, these actions ensure that all eligible New Yorkers can continue to receive COVID vaccinations at their local pharmacy without delay.