Bill to ban “vaccine passports” and shift county health board power to advisory role passes TN Senate

The Tennessee Senate has passed a bill to block government-issued vaccine passports and shift decision making power away from county health boards.

Senate Bill 858, introduced by Sen. Janice Bowling of Tullahoma passed in a 27-3 vote on Wednesday. The measure would move county health boards into advisory roles to assist the county mayor in public health decisions.

An amendment added to the bill would prohibit local and state governments from mandating private businesses require occupants to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 to enter into the business and utilize their services.

The house version of the legislation was recommended for passage in the House Health Committee and has been referred to the Finance, Ways, and Means committee.

Photo Courtesy: Associated Press