Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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September 17, 2025
Routine vaccination promotes the health and safety of all Michiganders. When individuals in our state choose to get a COVID-19 vaccine, they protect themselves, their families and neighbors from illness, hospitalization and death. This important decision should be between a person and their healthcare provider.
The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American College of Physicians have all made evidence-based recommendations that make clear that vaccination remains a safe and effective means for protecting against COVID infection. These recommendations are consistent with prior guidance and reflect the scientific consensus regarding the safety and benefits of immunization.
In addition, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) continually reviews evidence on new and existing vaccines. This evidence boverwhelmingly demonstrates that COVID-19 vaccines are safe, have saved millions of lives, and have prevented tens of millions of hospitalizations in the U.S. The 2023–2024 vaccines reduced the risk of COVID-19-associated emergency room and urgent care visits by 65-70% for children in the first two months after vaccination.
It is imperative that all Michiganders who choose to be vaccinated continue to have access to these vaccines and that coverage under state-regulated health insurance policies remains available. Michiganders need evidence-based guidance on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. Pharmacists and providers must be able to use their professional judgment and training to recommend and administer vaccines, consistent with their scope of practice.
Section 1 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 vests the executive power of the State of Michigan in the governor.
Section 8 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 places each principal department under the supervision of the governor.
Acting under the Michigan Constitution of 1963 and Michigan law, I direct the following:
1. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS), and the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) must work collaboratively and take action to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines are available to Michiganders who wish to access them, including, as appropriate:
a. Issuing clear, accessible guidance to providers, pharmacists, and the public regarding the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines for all appropriate populations;
b. Issuing clear, accessible guidance to providers and pharmacists to encourage prescribing and administering of COVID-19 vaccines, where appropriate;
c. Identifying, reviewing, and removing barriers to vaccine access to ensure COVID-19 vaccines remain widely available in Michigan; and
d. Ensuring to the extent possible that all health insurance plans under MDHHS and DIFS regulatory authority - including Medicaid and insurance plans in the individual, small group, and large group markets - cover COVID-19 vaccines.
2. All state departments and agencies must coordinate and cooperate with MDHHS, DIFS, and LARA in executing the duties outlined by this directive.
This directive is effective immediately.
Thank you for your cooperation in its implementation.
Click to view the full PDF of the executive directive.
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