“The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and our best defense against the virus, but should remain voluntary and never forced,” Abbott said.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order Monday banning “any presence” in the state from enforcing the vaccine. Abbott had previously issued orders prohibiting government officials and government agencies from performing mask jobs.
“No institution in Texas can compel an individual, including an employee or consumer, to receive the COVID-19 vaccine who is against such vaccination for any reason, personal, religious, or medical reason.” Those who were treated. 19. “I hereby suspend all relevant laws insofar as this is necessary to enforce this prohibition.”
Anyone who violates the order will be fined.
Abbott also announced that it has placed vaccine bans on the agenda for the next special session of state lawmakers. Abbott said the decree will be repealed after the law is passed.
“The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective and is our best defense against the virus, but it should be voluntary and not mandatory,” Abbott said.
The decision came after President Biden announced a massive vaccination campaign last month that would require all federal employees and contractors to be vaccinated against Covid-19. Biden also announced that the labor protection agency is passing a law requiring all employers to vaccinate 100 or more employees once a week or test negative if not vaccinated. It is not yet clear when the OSHA law will apply. Several state public schools have challenged Abbott’s previous bans on the use of masks. The state has filed a lawsuit against these areas.