Families USA: Mass Firing of ACIP Members Is a Dangerous and Reckless Assault On Public Health and Science - Families USA Skip to Main Content
06.09.2025 / Statement

Families USA: Mass Firing of ACIP Members Is a Dangerous and Reckless Assault On Public Health and Science

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Anthony Wright, executive director of Families USA, issued the following statement today in response to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s removal of all members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the scientific panel responsible for vaccine recommendations at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“The mass firing of the expert members of the independent vaccine committee is a dangerous and reckless assault on public health and science. For decades, the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee has received bipartisan support and has been guided by rigorous, evidence-based research to ensure the health and safety of millions of Americans. The removal of these experts, with no transparent or legitimate process, undermines the foundation of science-driven decision-making in government. This disturbing decision doubles down on the path that has led during the worst measles outbreak since the disease was declared eradicated in the United States in 2000 through prevention by vaccinations.

“Millions of families rely on trusted public health experts to assess vaccine effectiveness. Removing the entire panel not only sends a dangerous message about continued threats to public health, but continues to put our nations families and communities at risk and undermines our national security, making us more vulnerable to global threats.

“The recommendations of ACIP help determine which vaccines insurers are required to cover without cost-sharing, ensuring that millions of Americans can access life-saving immunizations. Replacing current experts with anti-vaccine appointees — such as those aligned with RFK Jr. — undermines this system. This is a step down the slippery slope of altering the vaccine schedule, which will limit access and strip Americans of their choice to protect themselves and their families by imposing new financial barriers to obtaining vaccines. This action adds onto the harm of the reductions in thousands of federal government workers in the field of public health, and as the Senate debates the House GOP budget that CBO estimates will result in termination of health care coverage for 16 million Americans.

“Make no mistake, this is not about removing conflicts of interest; this is about dismantling the very institutions that safeguard our families and communities while advancing RFK Jr’s personal agenda. Congress must act immediately and hold RFK Jr. accountable for this reckless and dangerous action. Congress must exert its authority to reinstate the committee and ensure we continue to protect our health. Families USA  will continue to stand in opposition to this blatant disregard for scientific integrity and demand accountability. The health of our nation depends on it.”