Texas Governor Gregg Abbott issued an executive order banning mandatory vaccine mandates to prevent infection with the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) by any entity in the state. While he believes the Covid-19 vaccine is safe and effective, Abbott said everyone has the right to decide whether or not to get one.
He emphasized that the vaccine is the right of individuals to do so. “The Covid-19 vaccine is safe and effective, but everyone in America should be free to decide whether to get it or not, or voluntarily and not forced,” Abbott said in a statement.
Abbott asked the Texas Senate and Congress to formalize his initiative in legislation. Thus, after that the executive order can be canceled.
Amid rising cases fueled by the Delta variant, US President Joe Biden signed an executive order that includes mandatory vaccination mandates at companies with more than 100 employees. In addition, the rules also apply to federal government officials as part of its plan to control the spread of the virus.
Biden also asked state governors to mandate sanctions for school teachers. For those who do not comply with the rules, the consequences in the form of dismissal or termination of employment can be given.
Several governors who are Republican politicians have opposed the vaccine mandate. In addition to Abbott, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster called the move unconstitutional.
(NFL)
