(CNN) -
President Joe Biden will use his first address to the nation on Thursday to announce that he is directing U.S. states to open coronavirus vaccine eligibility to all adults no later than May 1. May, a step that he says could allow for small Independence Day gatherings on July 4.
The announcements, anticipated by senior administration officials before the speech, represent the most aggressive timeline toward reopening yet, one that comes as COVID-19 cases decline, but as thousands of Americans continue to die from the virus each. week.
The speech, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET, is meant to open the next chapter in the coronavirus pandemic, taking stock of the worst year in recent memory while projecting hope that the next one will be better.
Using his executive authority, Biden will say that all states, tribes and territories must make all adults eligible for the vaccine by early May.
It will use the July 4 holiday as the deadline for all Americans to gather in small groups with family and friends.
"The president will talk about small gatherings, like a barbecue in his backyard, in his neighborhood," said a senior administration official.
“He will make it clear that this does not mean big events where a lot of people gather.
But it does mean that we can once again have an Independence Day with small gatherings and celebrations and that is a big step in the right direction.
Another official said Biden would warn Americans that reaching the July 4 goal will require continued vigilance over mask use, social distancing and vaccination when the person is eligible.
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"He is going to make it very clear that this is not automatic," said one official.
Covid-19 Vaccines
