Source: Kyle Becker

Governor Doug Ducey issued an Executive Order on Tuesday banning vaccine mandates in the State of Arizona.

“We encourage all Arizonans to get the vaccine — it’s safe, effective and free,” said Governor Ducey. “But getting it is a personal choice, and we will not allow discrimination based on vaccination status. Today’s order builds on our efforts to protect Arizonans from excessive mandates that hinder their freedom to choose what’s best for their health.”

Specifically, the Governor’s Executive Order states: “Any county, city, town or political subdivision official that implements a vaccine mandate contrary to the authorities outlined in this order, is in violation of A.R.S. 36-114 and 36-184 and such actions are punishable by a class 3 misdemeanor and subject to legal action by individuals for violation of their rights under Arizona law.”

“Today’s order is consistent with Senate Bill 1824, legislation signed by the Governor on June 30, and with Arizona Revised Statute 36-787, which does not provide any authority to a city, town or county to implement vaccination mandates,” a press release on the executive order stated. “Due to its consistency with current Arizona law, the rights derived by law under these statutes apply to any action taken by a county, city, town or political subdivision since June 30, 2021.” Advertisements

“In April, Ducey issued an executive order banning vaccine passports that would prevent state/local governments from requiring Arizonans to provide their vaccination status for COVID-19 to receive a service, visit places, or dine at a restaurant,” CBS 5 noted.

Ten states have passed a law banning vaccine mandates: Arizona, Arkansas, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah.