NEW: Bristol Rhythm & Roots board says vaccine cards, negative test proof not required for entry

Proof of vaccine card or results from a negative COVID test will not be required to enter the gates at the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion next month in Bristol.

A statement issued by the festival’s board of directors said after conferring with local, regional, and state leaders there was no way they could impose a vaccine mandate or negative test policy for the event without a state mandate.

The debate came about after headliner Jason Isbell announced he would not perform at venues where promoters did not require those COVID-related items.

Isbell told CBS News that he is imposing those rules for his concert because he wants to help people from getting sick instead and that is more important than people getting their feelings hurt.

(IMAGE: BRRR / BRISTOL BROADCASTING CO ARCHIVES)