BUCKS COUNTY – March 17, 2026 − In light of the chaos of recent federal rulings about vaccine recommendations, State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) will host an upcoming webinar focused on vaccine access and public health, bringing together leading experts to discuss the importance of vaccines, address common concerns, and provide up-to-date, evidence-based information for residents.
The webinar will feature a panel of speakers moderated by Senator Santarsiero:
- Rob Bonacci, MD, Special Advisor to Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Health
- Chari A. Cohen, DrPH, MPH, President of the Hepatitis B Foundation
- Kim Permar, Executive Director of the Bucks County Health Improvement Partnership
- Paul A. Offit, MD, Director of the Vaccine Education Center and Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Stanley A. Plotkin, MD, Physician, Researcher, and Vaccine Developer
The webinar will provide an opportunity for residents to hear directly from trusted public health leaders about vaccine safety, accessibility, and the role vaccines play in protecting our communities. Panelists will also discuss current challenges to vaccine access and what Pennsylvania is doing to ensure people have access to lifesaving immunizations.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to protect public health,” said Senator Santarsiero. “At a time when misinformation about vaccines is widespread and even supported by federal officials, it’s critical that we connect residents with trusted experts who can provide clear, accurate information and answer questions directly. I am proud to stand with our Governor Josh Shapiro as we continue to defend science-backed policies to keep our children and families safe.”
Pennsylvania, along with 14 other states, has taken legal action to challenge the federal changes to childhood vaccine recommendations. Those changes were blocked yesterday by a federal judge in Massachusetts.
The event is free and open to the public. Prior registration is required to receive the zoom link. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions for the panel both before and during the event.
Event Details:
Vaccine Access: What You Need to Know
March 31st, 7-8pm on Zoom
Register on our website: https://www.senatorstevesantarsiero.com/event/vaccine-access/
###