February 8th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

Gov. Larry Hogan responded Monday to criticism of the state’s ongoing vaccination distribution plan.

A letter from the Maryland Congressional Delegation stated, “Many of our shared constituents have expressed concern, confusion, and frustration about Maryland’s vaccine rollout….The State must provide more clear, accessible, and transparent information to Marylanders about the vaccine distribution system…To that end, we urge the State to put forward an effective strategy to tackle the current distribution challenges and disparities in access.’

In response, Hogan said the biggest issue the state faces when it comes to COVID-19 vaccine distribution is the lack of doses from the federal government.

“We will not rest until every Marylander who wants a vaccine can get a vaccine. You can be a part of this incredible undertaking, or you can criticize it from the cloakroom,” Hogan wrote in a letter. “The only way we will accomplish this goal – which I believe we share – is to get more vaccines flowing into Maryland from the federal government. As the vaccine is a federal asset, you are uniquely situated to assist in our endeavors to push for ramped up production and efficient review of additional vaccine candidates – I’m asking for your help to ensure the federal government is pursuing all possible avenues
and strategies to increase supply.”

Hogan said he’s followed science and guidance from President Joe Biden’s teams on which groups to open up for eligibility to make sure doses of the vaccine go into residents arms as soon as possible and vaccines aren’t wasted. Maryland is currently in Phase 1C of its vaccination plan.