Deep Dive (Oct. 12): Texas Gov. Abbott Bans Vaccine Mandates

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The House is set to vote Tuesday to extend the nation’s debt limit. But questions remain as to what happens after that money runs out in a few months. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Sunday that it will be lawmakers’ responsibility to raise the federal debt limit. But she’s confident Congress will follow through, saying not doing so would be “completely irresponsible and a self-inflicted wound.”

Federal vaccine mandates are set to take effect soon. This comes as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued an executive order banning vaccine mandates by any entity—public or private. He said the COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and our best defense against the virus, but should remain voluntary and never forced. The order establishes that no entity in Texas can force any individual to show a receipt of vaccination. That includes employees and consumers who object for reasons of personal conscience, religious belief, or medical reasons—and that includes having recovered from the virus.

Tiffany Meier
Tiffany Meier
Author
Tiffany Meier is a New York-based reporter and host of NTD's "China in Focus."
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