The Iowa House passed a bill last week that would ban the issuance of COVID-19 vaccine passports in certain situations.

District 47 Representative Phil Thompson talks about the details of the legislation.

“The bill really is tailored to business and patron relationships. It bans businesses and government entities from requiring a person to provide their COVID-19 vaccinations status to enter their facilities. It’s not to pertain to employer and employee relationship.”

Thompson talks about what happens if someone or organization is found in violation of the stipulations of this bill.

“The real teeth of this bill is that if a business or entity violates this statute then they’re disqualified from receiving state grants or state contracts. If they are already involved in a state grant or contract and they do require the information, then that grant just won’t be renewed.”

Thompson notes there are exceptions, including healthcare and nursing home facilities as those locations have more of the vulnerable populations. The bill is now in the Senate for consideration.