Strengthening the Vaccines for Children Program Act of 2026

Strengthening the Vaccines for Children Program Act of 2026

This bill expands vaccination programs and coverage for children under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Specifically, the bill expands and otherwise modifies the Vaccines for Children Program, which provides free vaccinations to individuals 18 years of age or younger who are uninsured or underinsured (i.e., with limited or no insurance for vaccines), are eligible for Medicaid, or are American Indians or Alaskan Natives. The bill expands the program to include children enrolled in CHIP. The Government Accountability Office must report on the related effects of the bill's changes.

The bill also temporarily requires payments under Medicaid and CHIP for vaccine administration and counseling services for children to be made at a rate that is no less than the rate under Medicare for equivalent services. It also increases the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (i.e., federal matching rate) for states that conduct culturally appropriate outreach regarding the benefits of vaccinations for children.