Bills aimed at addressing concerns about COVID-19 vaccinations were approved by the Legislature late Thursday. One measure allows employees to seek religious or medical exemptions from the controversial Biden vaccine mandates. The bill was opposed by business groups, including the powerful Business Council of Alabama. But the sponsor, Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Daphne), said the measure is a necessary response to government overreach. "This Legislature is still very much pro-business, but are also pro-individual freedom and pro-religious freedom," Elliott said during floor debate. "As it relates to COVID-19, we are saying you can not fire somebody based on their COVID-19 vaccination status." Sen. Larry Stutts (R-Tuscumbia) opposed the bill. "I'm against mandating what the employers do, but I'm also against them mandating that you have a vaccine," Stutts said. The Senate passed the bill on a vote of 23-2. The House followed a short time later, approving the measure 75-27. Lawmakers also approved a second bill requiring parental consent for minors to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Gov. Kay Ivey could sign both bills into law on Friday.