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Florida businesses, local governments could now be fined for requiring proof of vaccination

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As of Thursday, Florida’s businesses and local governments that require people to show proof they’ve been vaccinated could face thousands of dollars in fines.

It’s part of the bill Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law in May banning “vaccine passports.”

READ: Florida’s ‘vaccine passport’ ban will be enforced starting this month

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Under the law businesses, counties and cities are free to make their own policies regarding virus protocols such as capacity limits, mask requirements and regular testing.

But no one has to show whether they’ve had the vaccine to be allowed in or receive service.

READ: AdventHealth moves to ‘Green status’ as COVID-19 cases dip below 1,000 for first time in months

Since the governor’s signature in May, state law bars businesses, local governments and schools from asking people to prove they’re vaccinated. Violators will face a $5,000 penalty each time.

READ: Most parents believe kids are falling behind from virtual learning, study shows

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.