In Los Angeles, California, customers must show proof of their Covid-19 vaccination to enter bars, nightclubs, and similar venues. VOA asked Los Angeles residents how they evaluated the decision. There are those who support the decision, and there are those who oppose it.
Los Angeles residents and tourists aged 12 and over are now required to show proof of their Covid-19 vaccination before entering bars, nightclubs, beauty salons and other venues in Los Angeles.
The measure, signed by the Mayor of Los Angeles in October, is seen as one of the country’s toughest Covid-19 practices.
Margo shows her Covid-19 vaccination card as she enters the Hotville Chicken restaurant. Those who are not fully vaccinated are not allowed to enter the restaurant.
“There are people in my community who don’t want to be vaccinated,” Margo said. “I like the idea that it’s going to encourage people to get vaccinated,” he says.
Tony Casias, who lives in the area with his family, also says he has confidence in knowing that everyone around him has been vaccinated.
“I think this is a good opportunity for everyone to get vaccinated,” Casias said. “It’s tough, but it’s a great way to tell them why, to tell them that you are responsible for the health of others, your loved ones, and that they should get vaccinated.”
While vaccinated customers get quick service without waiting in line, restaurant owner Kim Prince questions the measure and is worried about losing customers.
The vaccination rate in the region where Hotville Chicken is located is 50 percent.
“I can go to the airport and I don’t have to show my vaccination card,” Prince said. I can go to the grocery store, I don’t need to show my vaccination card. However, when I go to the Hotville Chicken restaurant, I have to show my vaccination card. It doesn’t make sense to me,” he says.
Those who are exempt from vaccination for religious or medical reasons must show a negative Covid test done within the last 72 hours.
Some view the new vaccine application as overstepping its purpose.
Orly said, “It prevents us from living a normal life. Because I think everyone has the right to enter the stores. I think the mask is enough. This is too much for now,” he says.
John Hernandez says, “It would be against human rights if they made everyone show a vaccination card.”
Business owners who allow unvaccinated customers to enter will be fined up to $5,000.