Gov. Greg Abbott bans use of vaccine passports in Texas

Context: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis banned the use of immunization credentials last week, saying they "would create two classes of citizens based on vaccination."

The Texas order prevents state agencies and political subdivisions, as well as public and private organizations that receive public funding in the state from requiring people to show they've been inoculated against the virus to receive services.

• The order also supersedes any conflicting local executive orders.

What they're saying: "Everyday, Texans are returning to normal life as more people get the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine," Abbott said in a statement announcing the order.

• "But, as I've said all along, these vaccines are always voluntary and never forced. Government should not require any Texan to show proof of vaccination and reveal private health information just to go about their daily lives," the governor added.

The big picture: NIAID director Anthony Fauci said Monday that the federal government will not mandate the use of vaccine passports for travelers or businesses post-pandemic.

• Yes, but: The Biden administration had been working with private companies to create immunization credentials, and many businesses, including some in Florida, have said they'll require proof of vaccination as part of reopening, according to the Washington Post.