Leaders in some states are considering measures that would require employers to accept negative COVID-19 tests or proof of natural immunity as an alternative to vaccination requirements.
On Oct. 11, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a broad executive order banning vaccine mandates in the state. “The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and our best defense against the virus, but should remain voluntary and never forced,” Abbott said.
In some other states, bills aim to provide exceptions from federal and employer coronavirus vaccine mandates. Lawmakers in Arkansas, for example, recently sent a bill to the governor’s desk that would give workers two options if they choose not to get vaccinated: submit to weekly COVID-19 testing or submit proof biannually of natural antibodies from prior infection.
