Vaccine passports appear to be the latest polarizing issue in the Covid-19 pandemic, as policymakers debate whether Americans should have proof of inoculation to return to work, travel, or attend events.
The Biden administration has said there will be no federal mandate for a single vaccination credential, leaving the question of whether evidence is required and how to control it in local governments and the private sector.
This has created a mosaic of political decision-making, with dozens of bills paving the way through state legislatures across the country (most trying to ban vaccination requirements) and having governors take opposing positions.
Democrat North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has said his administration is discussing creating a standardized registry for people to prove they have been vaccinated. In Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott has said government agencies, private companies, and institutions that have received state funding cannot require people to prove they have been vaccinated against Covid-19.
In New York, Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo introduced Excelsior Pass, a program that allows you to demonstrate vaccination or Covid-19 status using a smartphone app or print. Florida Republican government Ron DeSantis issued an executive order last month banning companies from requiring employers or employees to document documentation certifying vaccination against Covid-19. Those who do not comply with the rules would no longer be eligible for state-funded grants or contracts, according to the order.