Covid Vaccine passports in the U.S.
The Federal Government in the USA is unwilling to take the step of creating a universal digital health pass or app. Twenty-two states have banned vaccine passports in the USA. This means that Americans will need several digital passes, like so many credit cards in a wallet. Some digital passes are already in use or are being tested, but none are universally accepted across the country like a Social Security card or a Passport.
Currently, seven states in the US namely New York, California, Hawaii, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey, and Louisiana are using vaccine passports to secure safe access to non-essential services.
NYC Vaccine Passport:
Since August 16th 2021, New York City citizens need to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination to enter certain venues such as restaurants, fitness centres, events and large gatherings.
Besides New York’s Excelsior Pass, citizens can also show proof using other certificates like NYC Covid Safe, CDC Vax Card, and NYC Vax Record.
California: vaccine card required
California accesses a digital copy of its vaccine card.
Hawaii vaccine card: O’ahu and Maui
Hawaii requires a negative COVID test result or 10 days of quarantine for travellers who fly between islands.
Vaccinated Hawaiians can now access a digital record of vaccination through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.
Colorado Covid pass in the works
Vaccine passports in Colorado are not mandatory yet, but this is being considered by the local government. The digital copies are now available on the myColorado app.
Illinois ‘Vax Verify’ system
Illinois’ Immunization Portal, Vax Verify system allows residents over 18 years of age to prove their vaccination status to the businesses requiring it.
Washington, New Jersey: Vaccine required for workers
Most state workers and on-site contractors are now required to be vaccinated. The due date for state workers to be fully vaccinated in Washington is 18th October 2021.
Louisiana vaccine passport: voluntary basis
This is another state where vaccine passes are not mandatory, but many private businesses have now started to require them for indoor gatherings.
Many bars and restaurants in New Orleans require proof of vaccination for entry. Citizens can download their digital vaccine cards from the LA Wallet app.
Public schools in Chicago have mandated vaccines for all teachers and staff and the “Vax Pass” is issued throughout the summer for certain events and concerts.
Which states have banned vaccine passports?
Twenty-two states across the US have officially banned the use of COVID vaccine passports for travel. The below-mentioned states have banned COVID passes:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- North Dakota
- New Hampshire
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Wyoming
- Utah
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