On Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council voted in favor of a law that will require people to show a vaccination passport before entering certain indoor venues. The law extends the current vaccine passport mandate that applies to large outdoor venues with more than 10,000 people.
The new vaccine mandate in LA was voted 11 to 2 in favor. Had it gotten one more vote, it would have come into effect immediately. However, it will be enforced 31 days after the mayor signs it into law.
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The new law will require citizens to show their passport to enter indoor establishments such as gyms, salons, bars, restaurants, shopping centers, and other entertainment venues. But it will not apply to what are described as “essential” businesses such as pharmacies and grocery stores.
For people with religious or medical exemptions for the vaccines, a negative test within the last 72 hours will be required.
Businesses found not to be enforcing the mandate will incur a $1,000 fine for a second infraction. The third and fourth infractions will attract $2,000 and $5,000 fines respectively.
“These new rules will encourage more people to get the shot, and make businesses safer for workers and customers — so that we can save more lives, better protect the vulnerable and make our communities even safer as we fight this pandemic,” said LA’s Mayor Eric Garcetti.
