Possible Changes to the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP) on the Horizon

 Posted on September 02, 2025 in Vaccine Information

It’s no secret that vaccine policy has been in the news lately. Recent statements by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary) indicate that the VICP is under scrutiny from federal health officials and that significant changes could be proposed in the near future. When, and if, changes will be made to the NVICP is unknown, but there is a protocol for the Secretary to follow that applies to most aspects of possible program changes.

Through the administrative rulemaking process, the Secretary’s proposed changes would be submitted to the Federal Register for publication. This allows the public to learn about the proposed changes and even to submit comments on the proposals. While details of any proposals are not available to the public yet, proposed rule changes do not necessarily mean that the rule will become final. Instead, the rulemaking process allows for public feedback that can impact the final rule that is adopted. At times, proposed rules have even been withdrawn after public feedback.

In the meantime, people interested in following developments related to the NVICP should keep in mind that the rhetoric surrounding changes to the NVICP is different from what is likely to emerge from the actual rulemaking process. We will continue to update our website to inform you about any important changes to the NVICP.

While much is unknown about future changes to the NVICP, it’s important to understand that the program continues to function. As attorneys that only represent people injured by vaccination, our focus remains on providing staunch advocacy for our clients.