Norristown, PA − December 9, 2025 – The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted to roll back the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s longstanding recommendation to vaccinate newborns against hepatitis B last week.
Following the vote, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro released a statement reaffirming Pennsylvania’s commitment to stand with medical experts, and continuing to strongly encourage the administration of the hepatitis B vaccine for infants.
In response to these developments around hepatitis B vaccine guidance for newborns, Senator Amanda Cappelletti, JD, MPH (D-17, Montgomery/Delaware),released the following statement:
“As a mother who is expecting her second daughter in just a few short months, I am beyond appalled and disheartened by last week’s decision that will undoubtedly threaten thousands of newborns’ wellbeing. I have a public health degree, and I can tell you there is absolutely no question for me and my husband: proven vaccines that keep our baby safe and healthy are a necessity.
We know in the nearly 30 years in which newborns have been routinely receiving the hepatitis B vaccine, case rates have plummeted by 99% among those ages 19 and younger. The numbers don’t lie. But Health and Human Services Secretary RKF habitually does, especially when it comes to the efficacy of safe and effective vaccinations.
I will not stand idly by while he and unqualified officials in the federal government continue to deliberately sow mistrust and confusion about trusted public health guidance. It is irresponsible to the American people, and morally corrupt.
Governor Shapiro has made it clear that this Commonwealth stands behind medical experts and trusted public health guidance. I am grateful for his continued dedication to fight for every Pennsylvanian’s health and well-being. I will continue fighting with him and my Democratic colleagues in Harrisburg to protect vaccine access, and ensure we have clear research and guidance we can all trust when it comes to information about our health.”
Read more about Pennsylvania’s commitment to protecting access to public health guidance.
Learn more about Senator Cappelletti’s legislative initiatives prioritizing public health.
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