Block the Dangerous Cancellation of Federal Vaccine Contracts
I urge you to take immediate action to reverse the reckless cancellation of over $500 million in federally funded vaccine research contracts by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These terminations, many involving mRNA-based research on influenza, COVID-19, and other pandemic threats, severely undermine national health preparedness and scientific leadership.
Proven Technologies Are Being Abandoned
mRNA vaccine platforms have been scientifically validated during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering faster development, greater adaptability, and strong safety profiles. Yet under Secretary Kennedy, HHS has halted 22 major BARDA contracts supporting this technology—despite ongoing measles outbreaks and global pandemic risks. The justification? Vague references to “safer platforms” and a shift away from mRNA, rooted more in ideology than science.
Expert Oversight Has Been Dismantled
In June 2025, HHS dissolved the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), removing all 17 members and excluding key groups like the AMA and AAP. Scheduled meetings of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have been canceled, and the $500 million in vaccine cuts at BARDA occurred with no public scientific review. These actions collectively amount to a breakdown in evidence-based oversight across HHS.
Congress Must Intervene Now
These cancellations disregard Congressional intent and may violate the Impoundment Control Act, which limits the executive branch’s power to withhold obligated funds. Congress must not allow ideological beliefs to override public health or nullify appropriated vaccine research investments.
I respectfully urge you to:
• Hold immediate oversight hearings with Secretary Kennedy and BARDA leadership;
• Reinstate the canceled mRNA research contracts;
• Restore independent scientific advisory panels at CDC, ACIP, USPSTF, and BARDA;
• Reaffirm that federal health funding must follow scientific evidence and not political ideology.
The safety and resilience of our nation depend on maintaining strong, evidence-based public health leadership. I urge you to act swiftly and forcefully to protect that principle.
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