Doctors tell D.C. committee permanent law will keep vaccines accessible

Multiple physicians who testified before the Committee on Health urged the council to make the emergency vaccination authority permanent, saying it reduces logistical and access barriers and aligns practice across settings. "By passing the emergency and temporary amendments preceding the bill last month, you have proven that you get it," said Dr. Sarah Candler of the DC chapter of the American College of Physicians. "Vaccines are safe, effective, and should be accessible to all people in the district without the burden of an additional physician visit."

Dr. Constance Bohon of the District section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists highlighted vaccine impact and maternal protections, testifying that "in the last 50 years, nearly 150000000 deaths worldwide have been prevented by vaccines." Hospital leaders also described volume and access: "In fiscal year 2025, we provided more than 63,000 immunizations," said Ruth Hollow of Children's National Hospital, who said adding certified pharmacy technicians as vaccinators reduces barriers for families. Panelists urged alignment across DC Health, professional societies and pharmacies so patients receive consistent guidance and easy access. The panel included representatives of ACOG, ACP, AAP and the Medical Society of DC; no witness raised substantive edits to the bill during oral testimony.