California, West Coast states roll out their own vaccine guidance amid clash with CDC

"Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law giving California the power to set its own immunization schedules based on state health experts and independent medical groups - a sharp break from decades of reliance on guidance from the federal government. The move came the same day that California and its West Coast allies issued joint recommendations for COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines, part of a regional alliance formed to counter what they say is a politicized U.S. Centers for Disease Control."

"The flurry of vaccine actions came as lawmakers and the University of California proposed a $23-billion ballot measure to replace federal research dollars lost to Trump-era cuts, underscoring efforts by Democrats in the state to shield science and public health from shifting federal policies. The measure, if passed by the California Legislature when lawmakers return in January, would go before voters in November 2026. "The loss of critical federal funding awarded to the University of California presents an unprecedented and perilous moment for the state and its communities," Theresa Maldonado, UC vice president for research and innovation, said in a statement."

California gained authority to set its own immunization schedules based on state health experts and independent medical groups, breaking decades of reliance on federal guidance. California, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii issued joint recommendations for COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines through a West Coast Health Alliance formed to counter a politicized U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Governors emphasized science, safety and transparency in providing clear vaccine guidance to protect families. Lawmakers and the University of California proposed a $23-billion ballot measure to replace federal research dollars lost to Trump-era cuts and to shield state science and public health from shifting federal policies. If approved by the Legislature, the measure would go to voters in November 2026.

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