COVID-19 Vaccine Access (E.O. 13962)

Summary

Makes sure Americans get first access to COVID-19 vaccines made or bought by the U.S. government before they are shared with other countries.

What problem does this solve?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, new vaccines were limited. The U.S. needed a clear rule for who should get the vaccines it helped create or buy. This order sets a policy that Americans must be offered the vaccine first, especially those who are most at risk, before the U.S. sends vaccines to other nations.

What does this order do?

Americans get priority access to vaccines

Establishes a policy that Americans must have first access to any COVID-19 vaccine developed or purchased by the U.S. government.

Vulnerable populations are first in line

Requires that the most at-risk people in the United States are given first access to the vaccines.

International access is delayed

Allows the U.S. to help other countries get vaccines only after there is a large enough supply for all Americans who want one.

Creates a plan for international vaccine sharing

Orders the development of a government-wide plan for how to share U.S. vaccines with allies and partners once domestic needs are met.

Coordinates vaccine distribution

Assigns the Secretary of Health and Human Services, with help from the Secretary of Defense, the job of making sure vaccines are distributed in a timely way across the country.

Who does this affect?

American citizens
Foreign nations and allies

What is the real world impact?

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Promotes a nationalist approach to vaccine distribution

Adopts an "America First" policy for life-saving vaccines. Critics might argue this could slow down the global effort to end the pandemic, as the virus can continue to spread and change in other parts of the world.

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Prioritizes the health of Americans

Ensures that the primary responsibility of the U.S. government is to protect its own citizens during a public health crisis by securing a vaccine supply for them first.

When does this start?

This order became effective on December 8, 2020, and set a deadline for creating an international access plan.

International access strategy

Within 30 days of the order (by January 7, 2021), a government-wide strategy for sharing vaccines internationally must be developed.