“No Shots, No Admission” Policy Coming to Los Angeles

The Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a motion instructing the City Attorney to draft an ordinance that would require individuals to show proof of vaccination to enter public indoor spaces within the geographic boundaries of the City. This would include restaurants, bars, retail establishments, fitness centers, spas, and entertainment centers such as stadiums, concert venues, and movie theaters.

In passing the motion, Council  President Nury Martinez indicated that unlike previous COVID-19 surges, this time vaccines are readily available and effective. However, per President Martinez, misinformation deters eligible individuals from getting the vaccine, which puts everyone at risk, including children under the age of 12 who cannot get vaccinated.

Accordingly, the Council decided to “make sure … everyone else gets … vaccinated.” See discussion here (starting from 1:41:33).

This measure follows a similar mandate that recently passed in New York City (but does not include retail establishments) and a motion proposed by Supervisor Janice Hahn for the L.A. County Department of Public Health to evaluate a vaccination requirement for certain indoor public spaces in unincorporated parts of Los Angeles County.

Further updates to follow once the ordinance is drafted and in effect.

Nicholas Kanter and Tal Burnovski Yeyni are employment defense attorneys.

This information provides an overview of a specific developing situation. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal advice for any particular fact or situation.