Bill Preventing Businesses From Firing Those Without COVID Vax Stalled By Republican Legislator

Texas Rep. Angie Chen-Button has thus far slow walked a bill that would prevent businesses in Texas from firing employees because they have not received one of the controversial COVID-19 vaccines. Thus far, the bill is stalled in a committee with only days remaining in the legislative session, according to Current Revolt.

Texas House Bill 1687, which would ban discrimination by employers based on their COVID-19 vaccination status, is currently stuck in the International Relations & Economic Development committee. This committee is chaired by Rep. Angie Chen-Button. Multiple calls to Chen-Button’s office were made. No comment was given and we were told to send an email.

Unconfirmed rumors are circulating in Austin that Rep. Chen-Button refuses to move this bill out of office due to a request by Texas Instruments to require vaccinations for employees. Rep Chen-Button is a former employee of Texas Instruments and Texas Instruments headquarters also happens to be located in one of the largest parts of her district.

Currently, Houston Methodist Hospital is saying it will fire workers who refuse COVID-19 vaccinations. It seems this may be a common issue if this bill does not pass. Many Texans have voiced frustration with Rep Chen-Button this session as she abstained in a very important vote on constitutional carry for Texans.