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Responsible for planting, growing, harvesting, processing, and preparing the food we eat, agricultural workers are essential workers during the COVID-19 response to keep the U.S. food supply chain operating efficiently. But farmworkers are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 due to lack of physical distancing, lack of access to health insurance and sick leave, and poor access to clean water for handwashing throughout the work day.

Scientists are working quickly to develop a safe and effective vaccine to provide immunity to COVID-19. Once a vaccine is approved, it will likely be imperative for states to authorize as many health care professionals to administer it, since the demand is expected to be extremely high. In addition, legislation authorizing alternative providers within the immunization neighborhood (e.g., pharmacies, schools, workplace, and other clinical sites) can expand the places where vaccines are available and increase access to vaccination among vulnerable populations. By recognizing that not every person is reliably linked to a healthcare provider, these policies can allow for timely and consistent immunization services.

This Health Policy Update is an overview of state legislative activity addressing access to and support for breastfeeding or lactation practices.