It doesn't require them to get proof from a doctor or religious leader. In addition, if someone gets fired for not getting vaccinated, the new law will allow them to remain eligible to receive unemployment benefits. Eighteen states filed three separate lawsuits Friday to stop President Joe Biden's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for federal contractors, arguing that the requirement violates federal law.

Meanwhile, Democrat lawmakers in Illinois took steps to limit a state law prohibiting discrimination against people for conscientiously objecting to medical procedures, which has been on the books for decades, in the name of enforcing COVID-19 mandates.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a bill into law Friday that aims to make it easier for workers to get medical and religious exemptions to workplace COVID-19 vaccine requirements.

The Iowa House and Senate passed the bill Thursday with bipartisan support.

Reynolds said in a statement Friday the new law will protect Iowans' freedom to make their own health care decisions.