Hochul Wants You Vaccinated: Governor Extends COVID Executive Order Again

Governor Kathy Hochul is doubling down on her push for New Yorkers to receive COVID-19 shots, extending Executive Order 52 for another 30 days. The order allows pharmacists to administer the vaccine statewide, a move the governor says ensures “access for all New Yorkers who wish to be vaccinated.”

Hochul announced the extension Sunday, October 5th while claiming it will remain in effect as her administration works on what she calls a “long-term legislative solution” to secure access to immunizations across New York.

In her announcement, Hochul blamed the Trump administration for not including COVID-19 vaccines in the federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.

“This inaction is causing unnecessary disorder while putting the health of millions of children at risk,” Hochul said, arguing Washington is blocking efforts to expand vaccine access.

She added, “I’ve been clear with New Yorkers that even as Washington continues its misguided campaign against science, I will always do what I can to ensure New Yorkers have access to the vaccines and information families need to make decisions about their health care - with no exceptions. I will sign as many extensions of this executive order as I need to. We will always let science lead the way - not politics.”

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald defended Hochul’s extension, saying, “Gov. Hochul’s swift action ensures that every eligible New Yorker will continue to have access to the updated COVID-19 vaccine.”

McDonald added, “As we call on the federal government to make this vaccine available through the Vaccines for Children program, the department will keep working to remove barriers and protect families’ access to lifesaving immunization. Vaccines save lives, and we will always stand with New Yorkers to safeguard their health.”

Hochul insisted the order is not a temporary measure but part of her broader vision to cement vaccination as a permanent feature of state healthcare policy. She said she intends to collaborate with the Legislature to make vaccine access “permanent and continuing,” which would include mandating coverage by insurance providers and continued authority for healthcare professionals to administer shots.

The governor also pointed to New York’s role in spearheading a regional multi-state collaboration on public health matters including vaccination protocols, disease tracking, and emergency response. According to Hochul, this cooperation allows states to share laboratory resources and expertise “to strengthen regional readiness.”

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Hochul Wants You Vaccinated: Governor Extends COVID Executive Order Again