Citing that COVID-19 vaccines will always remain voluntary in Texas, state Gov. Greg Abbott signed an executive order prohibiting vaccine requirements by state and local governmental agencies.

The order promotes “statewide uniformity and certainty in the state’s COVID-19 response,” a Thursday news release stated.

READ THE ORDER HERE

“The new Executive Order emphasizes that the path forward relies on personal responsibility rather than government mandates,” Abbott stated in the release. “Texans have mastered the safe practices that help to prevent and avoid the spread of COVID-19. They have the individual right and responsibility to decide for themselves and their children whether they will wear masks, open their businesses, and engage in leisure activities. Vaccines, which remain in abundant supply, are the most effective defense against the virus, and they will always remain voluntary – never forced – in the State of Texas.”

Under the order, no governmental entity can compel any individual to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The order also applies to state agencies, political subdivisions and any public or private entity that is receiving or will receive public funds.

The order also prevents those entities from requiring any person to wear a face covering.

Those failing to comply with the orders can be fined up to $1,000.