This was one in a continuing line of moves that have put Kennedy's vaccine skepticism into public policy, though scientists say the vaccines are safe.

While anti-vaxxers are thrilled, experts warn that defunding mRNA development takes away our already-proven best weapon against future pandemics.

In statements to the USA TODAY Network, both the University of Rochester Medical Center, or URMC, and Regeneron noted they don't receive federal funding connected to the mRNA research cuts announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s on Aug. 5.