INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb says he would not support requiring residents to receive a COVID-19 vaccine once immunizations become available.

The question of mandating a coronavirus vaccines was asked during a debate among the Republican governor and his two election opponents Tuesday night.

Holcomb said a vaccine should be encouraged when it is safe.

According to the Indiana Associated Press, Indiana law already requires 11 vaccines for public school students, including those for whooping cough, tetanus, measles and meningitis.

The nonprofit Indiana Debate Commission said voters from across the political spectrum submitted questions for the candidates.