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New Jersey Joins a Coalition to Challenge Vaccine Schedule Changes
On February 24, Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced that New Jersey, alongside 15 other states, has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, specifically targeting the recent changes made to the childhood immunization schedule by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This lawsuit consists of serious allegations regarding the removal of several important vaccines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommended list.
Federal Changes Under Scrutiny
The core of the lawsuit challenges a January 5, 2026, CDC “Decision Memo” that eliminated universal recommendations for vaccines against diseases such as rotavirus, meningitis, and hepatitis A and B, as well as influenza and COVID-19. The plaintiffs argue that these actions were not based on sound scientific evidence and were executed unlawfully.
The Role of the Advisory Committee
One of the significant points of contention revolves around the reconstitution of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The lawsuit alleges that Kennedy dismissed all original committee members in June 2025, replacing them with individuals lacking the necessary qualifications. Such practices go against the Federal Advisory Committee Act, which mandates a balanced representation of viewpoints in advisory panels.
Voices from State Officials
New Jersey officials emphasized their commitment to protecting public health. Davenport criticized the federal changes, asserting that replacing established experts with an unqualified panel poses a severe threat to children’s health. Similarly, Acting Health Commissioner Raynard E. Washington stressed that the changes jeopardize public trust in vaccines, which must be upheld through transparency and adherence to scientific evidence.
Implications for Public Health
The lawsuit aims to declare the revised immunization schedule and the new ACIP appointments unlawful, thereby blocking their implementation. The stakes are high; officials warn that such changes could lead to preventable diseases and significant health consequences across communities, including those in Sussex County, NJ, and other areas where vaccine trust and adherence are critical in safeguarding public health.
Collaboration Among States
This lawsuit marks a significant collaborative effort, with attorneys general from states including Arizona, California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania joining New Jersey in this legal battle. The collective voice of these states emphasizes a commitment to uphold established health standards and ensure that public health policy relies on robust scientific support.
The outcome of this lawsuit will be closely watched not only by health officials but also by families across the country. It will indicate whether the federal actions align with the robust scientific guidelines that have historically protected public health.
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