In the wide world of COVID-19 policy, there are but a few extreme takes out there in America, many of which come to us from Florida and Texas.
While most of the nation is relying on the CDC and other medical experts to dictate how to govern in regard to the pandemic, these two states are forging their own path and erring heavily on the side of freedom.
Florida has been particularly aggressive, and that hasn’t changed at all this week.
Florida is set to start fining businesses, government entities, and schools up to $5,000 for asking customers or visitors to show proof they have been vaccinated against the coronavirus.
“Promises made, promises kept,” a spokesperson for Gov. Ron DeSantis, Taryn Fenske, said of the rule explaining the fines, according to Fox 13.
The Florida Department of Health published a rule last week titled, “Penalties for COVID-19 Vaccine Documentation Requirements,” that will take effect on Sept. 16 and will result in fines of up to $5,000 being issued “per individual and separate violation.” Fines will need to be paid within 30 days.
Governor Ron DeSantis has been hard at work raising his brand on the national stage, with many within the GOP suggesting that the Sunshine State lawmaker may be eyeing a run at the White House in 2024.
His critics have long insinuated that these exaggerated COVID measures may be a part of this strategy.
