This bill aims to improve access to immunizations for children under the Medicaid and Vaccines for Children (VFC) programs. It expands the definition of a federally vaccine-eligible child to include those not insured for a qualified pediatric vaccine and children enrolled in the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). A significant provision establishes a minimum payment requirement for vaccine administration and counseling services. From enactment until December 31, 2028, Medicaid and CHIP must reimburse providers at a rate not less than 100 percent of the Medicare Part B rate for these services. The bill also clarifies that VFC providers can charge administration and counseling fees, which must not exceed costs, and allows separate charges for each component of a multiple-component vaccine. To encourage broader vaccination efforts, the bill increases the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) by one percentage point for states that implement culturally competent and effective vaccination outreach messages for child populations. These messages should highlight vaccine benefits, safety, and the dangers of not vaccinating. Additionally, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is authorized to ensure Tribal Epidemiology Centers have necessary access to health data for public health surveillance. Finally, the legislation mandates reporting requirements to monitor its impact, requiring the CDC to publish annual vaccination rates and the Comptroller General to report on the Act's effects on vaccination rates and provider participation.
Strengthening the Vaccines for Children Program Act of 2024
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Health
Strengthening the Vaccines for Children Program Act of 2026
USA119th CongressHR-8425| House
| Updated: 4/21/2026
This bill aims to improve access to immunizations for children under the Medicaid and Vaccines for Children (VFC) programs. It expands the definition of a federally vaccine-eligible child to include those not insured for a qualified pediatric vaccine and children enrolled in the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). A significant provision establishes a minimum payment requirement for vaccine administration and counseling services. From enactment until December 31, 2028, Medicaid and CHIP must reimburse providers at a rate not less than 100 percent of the Medicare Part B rate for these services. The bill also clarifies that VFC providers can charge administration and counseling fees, which must not exceed costs, and allows separate charges for each component of a multiple-component vaccine. To encourage broader vaccination efforts, the bill increases the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) by one percentage point for states that implement culturally competent and effective vaccination outreach messages for child populations. These messages should highlight vaccine benefits, safety, and the dangers of not vaccinating. Additionally, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is authorized to ensure Tribal Epidemiology Centers have necessary access to health data for public health surveillance. Finally, the legislation mandates reporting requirements to monitor its impact, requiring the CDC to publish annual vaccination rates and the Comptroller General to report on the Act's effects on vaccination rates and provider participation.