California requires that all students who attend school must present themselves in person for Covid-19 vaccinations. This is after the Food and Drug Administration (Gov.) has given their approval. Gavin Newsom was the first to announce this on Friday.

Newsom’s new order, which is first-of-its kind in the country, will begin in 2 phases to allow students to study in person. Following approval of the FDA’s entire age range, the mandate will take effect immediately for students 12 years and older.

Pfizer’s Covid vaccine for children 12-15 is only currently approved on an “emergency basis”. In August, the FDA approved this vaccine for 16-year-olds and above.

Newsom stated that California would apply the mandate to students 12 years old and older as soon as January 1, but could possibly extend it until July 1, depending on FDA approval.

California will apply the mandate to students aged 12 and under in Phase 2 after FDA approval. Pfizer submitted initial trial data to the FDA on children ages 5 to 11It stated last month that it would seek emergency use authorization within the next few weeks.

Newsom spoke at a press conference, “Currently we have administered at minimum one dose in California to 63.5% all of our young cohorts ages 12-17.” We need more. 84% of eligible recipients received one dose. But, for 12-17 we are not there we should be.

Newsom had previously issued a mandate for weekly testing to unvaccinated school employees on August 11.

This is an ongoing story. Check back often for new updates.