December 4, 2025
On December 2, the Vaccine Integrity Project (VIP) released a study on the safety, effectiveness, and public health impact of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccinations at birth.
VIP, a project by the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota, released the report two days before the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP) was scheduled to meet to discuss whether to end the practice of vaccinating all newborns for HBV. The practice has been in place since 1991.
VIP found the following in its review of data:
Given the long-term protection provided by the hepatitis B vaccine, the birth dose was also key in reducing HBV transmission, disease, and death in the U.S. overall.
No safety benefits were identified for a delayed first dose versus vaccination at birth.
Delaying the first dose leaves infants vulnerable to both undiagnosed maternal infection and HBV exposure after birth.
The data review found no benefit of delaying vaccinations.
See the full report here.
April 9, 2026
An amended piece of legislation that would exempt buprenorphine from prior authorization (PA) was heard in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on April 9.
April 9, 2026
On April 9, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee heard a bill that would require coverage for psychiatric Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) services under Medical Assistance.
April 9, 2026
On April 9, the House Taxes Committee heard legislation focused on supporting the financial stability and ongoing operations of Hennepin Healthcare.