Iowa has joined nine other states in a lawsuit challenging President Joe Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for workers employed by federal contractors.
Biden issued an executive order last month requiring all federal contractors be fully vaccinated by Dec. 8. They account for about one-fifth of the nation’s workforce.
In a statement, Gov. Kim Reynolds said the state is joining the lawsuit to challenge Biden’s requirement because it may require some to get vaccinated "against their wishes."
“I believe the vaccine is the best defense against COVID-19, but no one should be forced to choose between making a living or standing up for their personal beliefs," Reynolds said.
The announcement comes shortly after Reynolds signed a bill into law that makes it easier for employees to get religious and medical exemptions for workplace COVID-19 vaccine requirements, by not requiring them to submit proof from a medical professional or religious leader.
