By Madeline Holcombe and Stella Chan | CNN
The Los Angeles City Council voted Wednesday to require patrons at indoor spaces such restaurants, gyms and movie theaters to show proof of full Covid-19 vaccination — starting November 4.
The ordinance will also apply to personal care establishments such as spas and hair salons, as well as city buildings.
And while the measure doesn’t go into effect until next month, businesses must display advisory notice of the requirement by October 21. Individuals with medical or religious exemptions must provide a form declaring that. People who do not meet those requirements can use the outdoor spaces of a business and will be allowed in the covered spaces to use restrooms or pick up takeout orders.
The city will require patrons at large outdoor events with at least 5,000 attendees to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test.
The 11-2 council vote comes as a countywide proof of vaccination requirement is about to go into effect. Starting Thursday, proof of at least one vaccine dose will be required to both enter or work at indoor parts of bars, nightclubs, breweries and lounges across Los Angeles County.
And on November 4, bars and similar venues throughout the county will be required to verify full vaccination of their guests and employes prior to entry in their indoor parts.
The county — like many other parts across the US — has been recording a downward trend in new Covid-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths, but officials warn that the best way to keep numbers from ticking up again is getting vaccinated.
“As Halloween, Thanksgiving and the December holiday season are fast approaching, we are hopeful, that with continued declines in cases, we can plan for gatherings, parties, and perhaps travel to celebrate with family and friends,” Barbara Ferrer, public health director for Los Angeles County, said in a statement. “While we continue to live with the uncertainties posed by a mutating virus, one thing is certain: whatever your plans, they’ll be safer if you and your loved ones are vaccinated.”
