Oregon Requiring Proof Of Vaccination To Enter Churches, Businesses

Oregon Gov. Requires Proof of COVID Vaccinations to Enter Churches, Businesses

Andrea Morris

As COVID-19 vaccinations have become more widely available, a debate is heating up over the push for vaccine verification in order for people to enter businesses or churches without a mask on.

On May 18, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced new mask guidelines for people fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Now, Gov. Kate Brown (D) is requiring that people show proof of their COVID shots either digitally or on paper.

State businesses may continue to ask all employees and customers to wear a mask rather than asking for verification. 

Under the updated guidelines, businesses, employers, and faith institutions can determine their own mask use policies. They can choose to no longer require masks but must request that people show proof of vaccination.

But one conservative group is speaking out against the measure, arguing that the order is unconstitutional.

Freedom Foundation sent a letter to Gov. Brown demanding that she lift the vaccine status check requirement or face a lawsuit.

“The letter gives the Governor three options – rescind the order entirely, provide Oregonian’s data to justify why the guidance is necessary, or expect the matter to be resolved in court.”

And Liberty Counsel, a nonprofit religious rights law firm, said the mandate is a big step toward the loss of freedom.