ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico is joining the growing list of U.S. states that are opening up coronavirus vaccine eligibility to any person 16 and older.

Monday marked the start of expanded eligibility under the New Mexico Department of Health’s distribution plan.

The timeline for getting more shots out to the general public was sped up under a directive by the Biden administration to make all adults in the U.S. eligible by May 1. State officials also said they opened up eligibility because providers in some parts of the state were no longer able to find people to fill appointments.

Still, officials said those who were part of the earlier phases will be prioritized. State data also shows nearly 48% of residents have received their first shot.