Vaccine Mandate in Los Angeles County

Photo Credit: Marina Gutierrez

     Health officials have been contemplating whether or not to make the Covid-19 vaccine mandatory for weeks now.

     Los Angeles County Health Officials have given the executive order that Los Angeles County will now require the Covid-19 vaccine for all indoor bars, nightclubs, wineries, and breweries. Both employees and customers will need to have at least one dose of the vaccine by Oct 7, and need to be fully vaccinated by Nov 4.

     Indoor events of more than 1,000 people already require vaccination. The order will now extend that requirement to outside events as well, including theme parks.

     Vaccination for indoor restaurants is not yet required but suggested. The purpose of this mandate is to ensure the safety of others and help reduce the spread of Covid-19.

     Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis says she agrees with the order, but is curious on how the order will be implemented. In the past, many businesses have ignored the mandate. LA County Board of Supervisors assure they will be more strict this time around.

    Entertainment Businesses Requiring Vaccination

Furthermore, many entertainment businesses will now require proof of vaccination as well. The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association, Goldenvoice which produces Coachella and Stagecoach, and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre, will all now require guests to be vaccinated.

    Anti-Vaccine Reaction

Many people argue that this is a violation of their rights. An Orange County resident who wished to remain anonymous, shared some of her thoughts. When asked about how she felt about the mandate in Los Angeles county she was appalled. “I am not vaccinated and nor will I be forced to get vaccinated. It is my right to not get vaccinated and I will not let LA county change that” she stated. When asked what if the same mandate was ordered in Orange County she responded, “That just will not happen. If it does there will be tons of people protesting. It is our right.”

       Pro-Vaccine Reaction

On the other hand, Joseph Ayala, a resident of LA County was asked about his conception of the mandate. Ayala’s response was, “I am fully vaccinated and I know the purpose of this mandate is to protect our society and keep as many people safe as possible.” When asked how he felt about those opposed to the vaccine Ayala answered, “Those people have turned this pandemic into a game of politics.”

Health officials hope this urges people to go get vaccinated, and hope to see the number of vaccinated people go up greatly.