South Carolina bill would ban COVID-19 vaccination mandates

WBTW Staff

Updated: Jan 4, 2021 / 04:32 PM CST

In this handout photo released by Belarus Health Ministry, Belarus medical worker administers a shot of Russia’s Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine to a woman in Minsk, Belarus, Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020. Belarus has announced the start of mass coronavirus vaccinations with the Russian-developed Sputnik V shot, becoming the second country after Russia to roll out the vaccine that is still undergoing late-stage studies to ensure its safety and efficacy. (Julia Borodun/ Belarus Health Ministry via AP)

COLUMBIA, SC (WBTW) — A bill pre-filed in the South Carolina House would ban mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations and prevent “discrimination” for not getting vaccinated.

The state has not announced any mandates in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The bill would prevent employers from taking “any adverse employment action,” such as firing or demotion, if someone refuses to get vaccinated. Access to shopping, healthcare, and a long list of other activities couldn’t be restricted by vaccination status if the bill passes.

The bill is sponsored by Representatives Steven Long of Spartanburg, Sandy McGarry of Lancaster, Leola Robinson of Greenville, and Mike Burns of Greenville. Rep. Robinson is a Democrat. Reps. Long, McGarry and Burns are Republicans.

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