NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The massive omnibus package bars companies from requiring proof of vaccination for employment. Additionally, any employees terminated for refusing the vaccine could be eligible for retro-active unemployment benefits.  Some lawmakers voiced concerns about businesses caught between conflicting federal and state mandates.

“We’re putting businesses in the middle of a fight,” Sen. Jeff Yarbro said.  “They have to pick whether they want to violate federal law or violate state law,” said Sen. Yarbro.

Sen. Kerry Roberts argued that individual liberties took precedence over company operations.  “There’s so much helplessness I don’t ever recall a time people were crying out what can you do to protect our liberties,” Sen. Roberts said. “This is a vote for the people of Tennessee who are looking for someone to stand up for their individual liberties.”