Statement from SAFE Communities Coalition on Dismissal of ACIP Members by HHS
In a deeply troubling move, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has removed all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)—a respected, independent panel of scientific experts who have advised the CDC on vaccine policy for more than 60 years.
ACIP has helped determine the childhood vaccine schedule, guided providers, and ensured access to safe, effective immunizations through insurance coverage. Its work has protected generations from measles, polio, pneumococcal disease, and other deadly threats.
That protection is now at risk.
“This is the most radical step yet in RFK Jr.’s campaign to dismantle and discredit the U.S. public health system,” said Northe Saunders, Executive Director of SAFE Communities Coalition. “It’s a bitter irony: the man who has spent decades spreading distrust is now in charge of the very system he worked to sabotage.”
Without expert guidance, vaccines may become harder to access—especially in vulnerable communities. Insurance coverage could be disrupted. And preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough will continue to surge, endangering children, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant people.
Meanwhile, under RFK Jr.’s leadership, the CDC has stopped issuing routine disease alerts and has scaled back public health communications. Americans are being left in the dark—without the timely information they need to protect themselves and their families.
If Congress fails to act, the results will be felt in rising illness, missed vaccinations, overwhelmed hospitals, growing economic strain, and needless loss of life.
SAFE Communities Coalition brings together families, providers, advocates, and public health professionals to defend access to vaccines and fight misinformation. Our 11 Families for Vaccines chapters are working at the grassroots level across the country to educate lawmakers, counter disinformation, and advance strong vaccine laws in every state.
This work has never been more urgent.
“RFK Jr. calls for trust while gutting the process that makes it possible—transparent, science-based decision-making,” said Saunders. “It’s time for every parent, provider, and public health advocate to speak up.”
What You Can Do:
Call your elected officials and demand oversight and accountability.
Speak out on social media to raise awareness in your community.
Get involved locally by joining or supporting vaccine advocacy organizations like SAFE