Maine is poised to eliminate the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for healthcare professionals. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced this decision, stating that the mandate, while effective during the pandemic's peak, is no longer necessary due to evolving scientific understanding.

DHHS Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew emphasized Maine's science-based approach to pandemic policies. She acknowledged the mandate's success in safeguarding public health during a critical period but noted that current evidence supports its removal. The rule is expected to be published next week, with anticipated adoption by the end of the year following public input.

A booster shot being prepared. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)

Maine, with the highest proportion of older residents in the US, is among the few states retaining such a mandate. While the requirement is being dropped, the DHHS continues to recommend vaccination for both healthcare workers and the general public for optimal protection against the virus.

Maine legislators have urged expedited action on removing the mandate, hoping to facilitate the return of healthcare and EMS personnel who left their jobs due to the requirement. A separate process will be needed to lift the mandate for emergency medical technicians, with Maine’s Board of Emergency Medical Services slated to review the DHHS rule next month. This move aligns with the Biden administration's decision to end most federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates in May after the conclusion of the public health emergency.

Previously, seven Maine healthcare workers challenged the vaccine requirement in a federal lawsuit. The lawsuit was initially dismissed by a judge who deemed the mandate rationally based. However, an appeals court in May instructed the judge to re-evaluate aspects of the legal analysis.