Topline
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Florida Governor, stated Sunday that he wants to win over out-of-state officers who are against their state's vaccine mandates. He offered $5,000 bonuses as part of his larger attack on vaccine requirements and position himself as an emerging figure within national Republican politics.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference at Lakeland's Florida Police Department on September 7. SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The Key Facts
DeSantis stated that Florida is actively seeking out out-of-state law enforcement. DeSantis stated that the bill would be presented during a special session of Florida's legislature. The governor called this session earlier in the week to pass legislation that would prohibit private employers from imposing vaccine mandations.
Important Quote
NYPD, Minneapolis and Seattle: If you aren't being treated well, we will treat you better here. You can fulfill important needs for us and we will compensate you accordingly, DeSantis stated Sunday.
What to Watch
DeSantis stated that he hoped the special session would be held in November when he announced it. However, Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls indicated in a memo to lawmakers following DeSantis' announcement that the governor has not yet suggested any dates.
Important Background
NPR reports that more than 20 states have adopted Covid-19 mandates for government employees like police officers. Numerous police unions across the country have opposed the mandates and some have filed lawsuits to stop them. More than 4,500 Chicago police officers refused the mandate, while the Massachusetts police union reported that at least 150 police officers have resigned. Fears that existing staff shortages will worsen due to mass opposition have sparked concern. After Florida passed a vaccine passport ban, DeSanti's plan to ban employer mandates and reward out-of state officers comes after the state banned private businesses, education institutions, and local governments from requesting proof of Covid-19 vaccination for customers and employees. The state is currently investigating more than 100 possible offenders and will fine Leon County $3.57million for violating its employee vaccine mandate.
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Unions and police officers fought against mandates to give vaccines to public workers (NPR).
As vaccine mandates go into effect, cities and police unions are at odds (Associated Press).
Floridas DeSantis Calls For Ban On Employer Vaccine MandateDays After Similar Effort Fails In Texas (Forbes)
Florida Fines $3.57 Million for Covid Vaccine Mandat (Forbes).
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