New York State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. today announced that in an effort to affirmatively fix some of the issues related to the vaccine rollout, he has co-sponsored legislation introduced by Assembly Member Kenneth P. Zebrowski, to establish a vaccine prioritization appointment process for individuals over the age of seventy-five (75). This cohort of individuals, who are some of our most vulnerable New Yorkers, were given only one day of prioritization before the State opened up the eligibility list to millions of additional New Yorkers.

One of the biggest issues with the vaccine rollout has been the hodgepodge of providers and vaccine allocations. Individuals across the State are confused about where vaccines are being distributed in their community, how many are being distributed, who to contact, when to contact them and how to contact them. This bill seeks to remedy this by creating a more centralized process, starting with our most vulnerable populations.

Individuals over the age of 75 disproportionately lack access to, and expertise with computers and the internet, putting them at a disadvantage in scheduling COVID-19 vaccine appointments. If passed, this bill would direct the Department of Health (DOH) to provide eligible individuals with the opportunity to schedule an appointment in a centralized manner, either online or by phone. The DOH would be able to direct any vaccine site (both public and private) to allocate a number or percentage of their vaccine allotment to provide appointment slots for these individuals.

Moreover, if enacted, the DOH would then have to report to the Legislature, no later than thirty (30) days after the enactment of this law, and every 30 days thereafter, on the number of vaccines administered to individuals over the age of 75 and the approximate number of eligible individuals remaining. Further, after the 30 days, the bill allows the Commissioner to identify additional population cohorts for prioritization following the previously established distribution schedule.

Assemblyman Thiele stated, “Currently, there is little correlation between public health need and getting a COVID vaccine appointment. Being computer savvy shouldn’t be the primary basis for getting the vaccine.

Now is the time to reform the current vaccine rollout system. I am pleased to join my colleague in sponsoring this important legislation that would prioritize our most vulnerable population and create a more centralized, efficient, and equitable vaccine distribution system.”