U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decision to dismiss all members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has drawn criticism from governors in California, Oregon, and Washington. Governors Gavin Newsom, Tina Kotek, and Bob Ferguson issued a joint statement expressing their concerns over the move.
Secretary Kennedy justified the dismissal by accusing ACIP members of contributing to a “crisis of public trust.” However, the committee has been recognized for its expertise in developing vaccine recommendations for 60 years. The sudden removal of all current members just weeks before their next meeting has raised alarms about potential impacts on national health.
Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the importance of relying on scientific knowledge to protect public health. “Together, our states depend on the best science and knowledge available to protect public health,” he stated.
The Public Health Departments in California, Oregon, and Washington continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccines for individuals aged six months and older. They stress protecting high-risk groups like infants, pregnant individuals, and those with serious disease risks. These recommendations align with major medical associations in the United States.
The three states have previously collaborated through initiatives like the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup during the pandemic. They remain committed to working with medical experts and organizations to ensure that public health guidelines are based on sound science.
