AUSTIN - Numerous groups and associations have sent a letter to the Texas Senate Health & Human Services Committee in regards to Senate Bill 7, which seeks to punish employers for requiring employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Authored by Sen. Mayes Middleton, SB 7 prohibits an employer from adopting or enforcing certain COVID-19 vaccine mandates, and authorizes an administrative penalty if a violation occurs.
Some of the groups who signed the letter include the National Federation of Independent Business, Texas Civil Justice League, Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce and Texans for Lawsuit Reform.
“The entities joining this letter sole interest—which we share with you and all members of the Legislature—is ensuring Texas remains the best place in the nation to live, work, and conduct Business,” the letter states.
“As a general rule, we believe Texas employers act responsibly and, therefore, additional regulation of the employer/employee relationship is not necessary.”
The groups believe that if the Texas Legislature is determined to pass a bill regarding COVID-19 vaccination mandates, the employment-at-will doctrine should govern the legislation.
“We urge you to continue to foster a common-sense, low-regulation environment that allows Texas employers to succeed,” the letter states.