Representative Joseph Praises Governor Polis over Vaccine Access

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 15, 2025

Boulder, Colo. – Rep. Junie Joseph today praised Governor Jared Polis for swiftly issuing a directive that expands access to COVID-19 vaccines for all Coloradans, while highlighting a message she received from a Colorado resident encouraging the state to explore regional partnerships to further strengthen public health protections.

Governor Polis’s Public Health Order 25-01 and the accompanying standing order allow pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines without individual prescriptions, effective September 5, 2025. These measures ensure that all Coloradans, including those under 65 who want updated vaccines, can access protection conveniently and safely, without unnecessary barriers caused by federal restrictions or delays.

“A grandmother from Fort Collins recently reached out to me about her 3-year-old grandchild who underwent a kidney transplant. To be near him safely, she and her husband need COVID-19 boosters, but shifting federal guidance had made access confusing,” said Rep. Joseph. “Governor Polis’s action cuts through that red tape and ensures families across Colorado can get the protection they need.”

Joseph noted that other states, including California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii, have formed the West Coast Health Alliance to provide coordinated, science-based guidance on vaccines. While Colorado has acted decisively on its own, this message from a concerned Coloradan raises the question of whether regional collaboration could further strengthen public health protections, reinforce cross-state solutions, and help families feel more confident in the guidance they receive.

“Cross-border solutions strengthen our communities and ensure families are protected,” Joseph added. “Colorado has developed important best practices that neighboring states can learn from, and by sharing expertise and coordinating our efforts, we can safeguard our system and reduce strain from out-of-state use. Federal guidance can be unpredictable, and Colorado has consistently risen to meet the challenges. Exploring partnerships with other states could further bolster clarity, consistency, and resilience, helping families across Colorado navigate uncertainty with confidence.”

Joseph emphasized that her focus is on elevating community voices: “Even when a resident lives outside my district, I take their concerns seriously. Coloradans want reliable, science-based guidance, and I am committed to lifting up their voices and supporting any effort, state or regional, that protects our most vulnerable.”