Fifteen states filed suit Tuesday against the Trump administration over recent changes to federal childhood vaccine recommendations, alleging the revised guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention unlawfully undermines public health protections.

The complaint argues that the CDC’s updated recommendations, announced last month, scale back prior guidance that encouraged routine immunization of children against influenza, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, certain forms of meningitis, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Under the new framework, those vaccines are recommended primarily for high-risk groups or when determined appropriate through what officials describe as “shared decision-making” between physicians and parents.

State officials contend the policy diverges from long-standing medical standards and could increase the risk of disease outbreaks, potentially forcing states to allocate additional resources to manage public health consequences. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat, said during a news conference that children’s health should not be politicized. California is among the states participating in the lawsuit.

The CDC and the Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the litigation.

The legal action marks the latest clash between Democrat-led states and President Donald Trump’s administration over federal health policy changes implemented under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The administration has reduced staffing at federal public health agencies, scaled back certain research funding, and revised federal guidance on issues including fluoride and immunizations.

The lawsuit also challenges Kennedy’s decision last year to dismiss all members of a federal vaccine advisory committee and appoint new members, alleging the move violated federal procedures.

While states retain authority to mandate vaccines for school attendance, CDC recommendations historically influence state-level requirements. The case now moves to federal court, where judges will weigh whether the administration’s policy revisions comply with statutory and administrative law.