Georgia Senators Vote to Ban COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements

The Georgia Senate voted 31-21 Tuesday to permanently block schools and most state and local government agencies from requiring people to get vaccinated against COVID-19.  The measure now moves on to the House for more debate.

Senator Greg Dolezal, a Republican from Cumming who is sponsoring the measure, says the government shouldn't be allowed to force anyone to get the COVID-19 vaccine, or refuse service to those who are unvaccinated.  "I don't believe that government should discriminate against citizens based on COVID-19 vaccinations," said Dolezal.

The measure prevents state agencies, local governments, schools and colleges from requiring proof of vaccination.  Lawmakers said if governments and schools can't require proof, they can't enforce mandates.

Democratic Senator Nan Orrock of Atlanta, opposes the measure, saying "The majority is fundamentally signing on to the anti-vaccination movement and tying the hands of government if COVID-19 worsens again."