Governor Reynolds Wants Action Taken Against ‘Vaccine Passports’

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds added her name to the list of politicians who are against so called 'vaccine passports' being discussed nationwide. The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that Governor Reynolds wants legislation passed that would prohibit them in the state of Iowa, citing her concerns that the federal government could create a list that businesses and other groups could then use to decide who can travel or attend concerts.

However, Governor Reynolds need not worry. The Gazette reports that the White House says that there will be no federal vaccine passport system. During a briefing on Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki stated, "Let me be very clear on this-I know there's been lots of questions: The government is not now, nor will we be supporting a system that requires Americans to carry a credential. There will be no federal vaccinations database."

The idea of a vaccine passport has gained some support among some businesses and schools as a way of assuring customers that they can re-open safely. The Gazette reports that this week, The World Health Organization stated that it was against vaccine passports, citing concerns about equity. The WHO also said it was against providing such a document in order to travel internationally.

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The Gazette reports that Governor Reynolds will work with state lawmakers with passing a law this legislative session. If unsuccessful, she said she would consider using an executive order. Reynold says she fears that vaccine passports could create what she called a 'two tier society.'