Gov. Ducey signs order barring local governments from requiring vaccines

PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey issued an executive order Monday to keep vaccine mandates out of the state, saying local governments that implemented one would be breaking the law.

The order stated that any county, city, town or political subdivision official who implemented a vaccine mandate contrary to the order violated state law breaking the law and subject to punishment.

“We encourage all Arizonans to get the vaccine — it’s safe, effective and free,” Ducey said in a press release.

“But getting it is a personal choice, and we will not allow discrimination based on vaccination status. Today’s order builds on our efforts to protect Arizonans from excessive mandates that hinder their freedom to choose what’s best for their health.”

It is similar to a bill he signed into law June 30, which said cities, towns and counties did not have the authority to impose vaccination mandates.

The order also said employees of local governments can use sick leave if it is recommended they stay home because of exposure to COVID-19.

The governor’s office said the state’s Fair Wage and Healthy Families Act earned paid sick time is to be provided to employees when someone is at risk to the community’s public heath.

“This included quarantining due to COVID-19 exposure, whether or not the individual is vaccinated from the virus,” according to the press release.

Late last week, Tucson voted to require all city employees get the COVID-19 vaccine, per Tucson mayor Regina Romero in an emergency City Council meeting Friday.

The mandate will require a five-day suspension for city employees who do not comply.

Three days before the council decision, Pima County voted 4-1 against requiring COVID-19 vaccines for state employees in a Board of Supervisors meeting.

Since April, Ducey has signed an executive order that ban “vaccine passports” and bars state and local governments from requiring proof of vaccination to receive service or enter certain buildings; and another that students would not be required to get vaccinated or show documents related to COVID-19 vaccination.

That order also stated that students can’t be mandated to be tested for the virus or have to wear a mask to go to in-person learning.

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