News & Media
Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Directive to Remove Barriers to COVID-19 Vaccines
On September 17, 2025, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive aimed at improving access to COVID-19 vaccines in Michigan. The directive addresses challenges arising from evolving federal vaccine policies, confusion around eligibility, and insurance coverage.
Whitmer emphasized the importance of vaccines, stating, "We all have a role to play in keeping our communities safe and healthy. Today’s executive directive ensures Michiganders can get the COVID-19 vaccine if it’s right for them."
The directive instructs the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS), and Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to:
- Ensure health insurance plans, including Medicaid and private plans, fully cover COVID-19 vaccines.
- Provide clear guidance to healthcare providers, pharmacists, and the public on vaccine safety and efficacy.
- Encourage healthcare professionals to actively promote, prescribe, and administer COVID-19 vaccines.
- Identify and eliminate any other barriers to vaccine access.
By streamlining vaccine access, Whitmer aims to keep Michigan residents safe during the flu and COVID-19 season.
MSMS is tracking the latest vaccine updates, including this week’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations, and will share new information as soon as they've been released.
The Executive Directive PDF