Abbotts Executive Order Bans Mandates By Any Entity

AUSTIN, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order on Monday, Oct. 11, stating that no entity in Texas can compel receipt of a COVID-19 vaccination by any individual.

According to the executive order, that includes an employee or consumer, who objects to such vaccination for any reason of personal conscience, based on a religious belief, or for medical reasons, including prior recovery from COVID-19.

Governor Abbott also sent a message to the Chief Clerk of the House and Secretary of the Senate adding this issue as an item to the Third Special Session agenda.

"The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and our best defense against the virus, but should remain voluntary and never forced," Gov. Abbott said.

Multiple school districts in Texas are defying Gov. Greg Abbott's earlier ban on mask mandates to protect against the spread of COVID-19. The state has filed lawsuits against those districts.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick tweeted his approval of Gov. Abbott’s new executive order.