Maricopans will today find it easier to get the latest COVID-19 shot under a new statewide standing order announced Friday. 

Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs directed the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to issue the order, allowing pharmacists and other licensed providers to administer the 2025-2026 vaccine to anyone 6 months and older. 

The move breaks from federal policy. Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration limited approval of the vaccine to people 65 and older and those at high risk of severe disease. Arizona’s order opens eligibility to nearly everyone, with pharmacies able to vaccinate ages 6 and older and health care providers handling younger children.  

“We are securing Arizonans’ health care freedom,” Hobbs said. “The health and safety of Arizonans are my top priority. That’s why I took action to expand access to COVID-19 vaccines and give Arizonans who want one the ability to get one.”  

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Richard Carmona, now ADHS medical advisor, signed the order.  

“Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect our communities,” he said. “The COVID-19 vaccine has proven to be safe and effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death.” 

“We understand the federal changes have caused confusion about eligibility,” said ADHS Interim Director Sheila Sjolander. “We are committed to keeping the public updated on our recommendations throughout this respiratory season.” 

Just weeks ago, many Maricopans couldn’t find a dose at all. In late August, Pinal County canceled vaccine appointments after running out of the 2024-2025 formulation, which the CDC still recommends. The county health office in Maricopa had stopped scheduling shots, telling patients shipments could end at any time. Parents reported being offered last year’s vaccine or warned their child’s appointment could be canceled at short notice. The FDA had already approved the 2025-2026 formulation for limited groups, but CDC sign-off and federal distribution delays left local clinics empty-handed.

“Our team has been working around the clock to finalize the standing order,” said Pinal County’s Health Department. “The ADHS website has been updated with COVID-19 vaccine information and a copy of the standing order.”  

The order does not guarantee every pharmacy will participate. How much you pay and whether your insurance covers Covid are on a case-by-case basis.  

The order takes effect immediately and runs through September 2026, subject to review. 

More information is available on the Pinal County COVID-19 webpage.