Governor Hogan announces “VaxCash 2.0” initiative to encourage booster shots

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Governor Larry Hogan is continuing to urge Marylanders to get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.

During a press conference Tuesday afternoon, the governor announced a new initiative, called “VaxCash 2.0”. Through this initiative, the Maryland Lottery will pick and award one booster Maryland each week for 12 straight weeks. The winnings will kick off with a special initial $500,000 drawing next Tuesday, February 15th. From there, winners will be selected each week for $50,000 prizes, and in the final week, the grand prize winner will receive $1 million. To be eligible to win, you must be 18 and older, a Maryland resident, and have received all of your shots in Maryland.

Governor Hogan again encouraged employers to consider offering paid leave for their employees who want to get their booster shot.

In an effort to get more Marylanders boosted, the state will now offer booster shots at many hospital-based sites, in addition to the 539 booster clinics statewide.

During his press conference Tuesday, Governor Hogan also announced the launch of a Healthcare Heroes Poster Competition in honor of Healthcare Heroes Appreciation Week. Students from pre-K through 12th grade are encouraged to submit posters that depict the theme “Celebrating Maryland’s Healthcare Heroes”. Winning posters will be selected at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, with Dr. Jinlene Chan and First Lady Yumi Hogan serving as judges. The winning posters will be displayed at area hospitals and the winning students will be invited to the State House to receive Governor’s Citations.