Annapolis, MD – Governor Wes Moore announced the introduction of the Vax Act of 2026 on Wednesday as part of his legislative agenda for the ongoing Maryland General Assembly session. The bill aims to protect and expand access to vaccines for Maryland residents amid concerns over federal policies that could hinder vaccination efforts.
The Vax Act represents a proactive measure by the Maryland administration to counter what Governor Moore described as attempts by the Trump-Vance Administration to discourage vaccine uptake and erode public trust in immunization science. Speaking at a press conference in Annapolis, Moore emphasized the importance of safeguarding public health in the state, particularly in light of recent federal actions that have raised alarms among health experts.
“Marylanders deserve reliable access to life-saving vaccines without interference from out-of-state politics,” Moore stated. “This legislation ensures that our state remains a leader in public health protection, prioritizing the well-being of our families and communities.”
Key provisions of the Vax Act include mandates for state-funded health programs to maintain uninterrupted vaccine distribution, regardless of federal funding fluctuations. The bill would allocate resources to local health departments to bolster vaccination clinics and outreach programs, especially in underserved areas. It also establishes penalties for any entities within Maryland that spread disinformation about vaccines, aiming to preserve scientific integrity in public discourse.
The announcement comes at the start of the 2026 legislative session, where lawmakers are addressing a range of priorities including budget challenges and economic development. Health officials in Maryland have noted that vaccination rates have held steady in the state, but federal rhetoric has contributed to a slight uptick in hesitancy among certain demographics. For instance, data from the Maryland Department of Health indicates that childhood immunization rates in rural counties dipped by 2% in late 2025, prompting calls for stronger state-level interventions.
Governor Moore’s office highlighted the act’s alignment with broader public health goals, such as preparing for potential outbreaks of preventable diseases. The legislation draws on successful models from previous state initiatives, like expanded COVID-19 vaccination drives that reached over 80% of eligible adults during the pandemic. Supporters argue that the Vax Act will not only protect current access but also invest in long-term infrastructure, including training for healthcare providers on vaccine education.
Critics, including some Republican lawmakers, have expressed concerns about the bill’s potential overreach into free speech and its fiscal implications. However, Moore defended the measure as essential for state sovereignty in health matters. “We’re not just reacting; we’re leading,” he added.
The Vax Act has garnered support from medical associations across Maryland, with the Maryland State Medical Society praising it as a “vital shield against national uncertainties.” As the bill moves through committees, advocates anticipate robust debates on its scope and funding, estimated at $15 million annually from state general funds.
This initiative underscores Governor Moore’s commitment to health equity, building on his administration’s previous efforts to address disparities in vaccine access during public health emergencies. By embedding these protections into state law, Maryland positions itself to maintain high immunization coverage rates, even as federal policies evolve.
Lawmakers are expected to hold initial hearings on the Vax Act next week, with a vote anticipated by mid-session. The governor’s office remains optimistic about bipartisan backing, citing the universal benefits of vaccination for schoolchildren, seniors, and vulnerable populations statewide.