In a social media announcement April 6, Gov. Bill Lee announced that he opposes any government requirements to show documentation of the COVID-19 vaccine, often referred to as "vaccine passports."

Lee said he believes whether a resident receives a vaccine or not to be a personal choice. Other states, including Texas, have made similar statements recently coming out against requirements to show proof of vaccination.

"I oppose vaccine passports," Lee said. "The COVID-19 vaccine should be a personal health choice, not a government requirement. I am supporting legislation to prohibit any government-mandated vaccine passports to protect the privacy of Tennesseans' health information and ensure this vaccine remains a voluntary, personal decision.

As of April 6, there are at least two bills in the Tennessee Legislature that would prohibit state and local government entities from requiring vaccinations as a condition of employment. Both bills were filed in mid-January and are currently in subcommittee. The bills as written would not apply to privately owned businesses.

See the full post from Lee below.