Local News
Special Olympics drops vaccine rule after $27M fine threat
By 
Reporter
Tallahassee, Florida – After Florida moved to fine the organization $27.5 million for violating a state law against such rules, the Special Olympics has dropped a coronavirus vaccine mandate for its games in Orlando.
The organization had removed the requirement for its competition in the state, which is scheduled to run from June 5 to June 12, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday announced.
“In Florida, we want all of them to be able to compete. We do not think it’s fair or just to be marginalizing some of these athletes based on a decision that has no bearing on their ability to compete with honor or integrity,” DeSantis said at a news conference in Orlando.
According to The Florida health department, the Special Olympics would be fined $27.5 million for 5,500 violations of state law for requiring proof of coronavirus vaccination for attendees or participants.
Florida law bars businesses from requiring documentation of a COVID-19 vaccination. DeSantis has strongly opposed vaccine mandates and other virus policies endorsed by the federal government.
According to the Special Olympics statement on its website, people who were registered but unable to participate because of the mandate can now attend.
-
Local News6 months agoA huge financial relief is coming for Broward County schools teachers, principals, and educational support staff after unanimous vote results in salary hike
-
Florida6 months agoFlorida Senator Rick Scott’s renewed push for the Sunshine Protection Act aims to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, with backing from key House and Senate leaders, emphasizing health, benefits
-
Crime & Safety6 months agoOkechukwu Josiah Odunna of Nigeria arrested for masterminding a fraudulent real estate operation that deceived financial institutions in Florida, leading to significant losses
-
Crime & Safety6 months agoFederal jury convicts Florida man, Dustin Sean McCabe, of manslaughter and fraud after deadly boating accident and deceptive COVID relief claims that exposed reckless conduct and financial exploitation
-
Florida6 months agoComprehensive conservation strategy secures productive lands to ensure future generations continue Florida’s proud tradition of farming and ranching
-
Local News6 months agoSouth Florida artists urged to reimagine public spaces as Dania Beach launches Creative Visions initiative, seeking immersive art projects that engage the community and enhance everyday locations
-
Crime & Safety6 months agoFlorida’s fight against the fentanyl crisis intensifies as Attorney General Uthmeier’s office charges 33 in a sweeping, multi-jurisdictional drug trafficking bust
-
Florida6 months agoSenator Rick Scott’s legislation seeks to impose harsh consequences on universities for neglecting antisemitic harassment, ensuring Jewish students are protected under federal law in latest legislative push
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.