Los Angeles City Council President Nury Martinez, 6th District, and Councilman Mitch O’Farrell, 13th District, introduced a motion on Aug. 4 to require proof of COVID-19 vaccinations for people dining indoors at restaurants or visiting establishments such as gyms or sporting events.

The motion would require eligible individuals to have received at least one dose of the vaccine to enter indoor public spaces, including but not limited to restaurants, bars, retail establishments, fitness centers, spas and entertainment centers such as stadiums, concert venues and movie theaters.

“Enough is enough already,” Martinez said. “Hospital workers are exhausted, moms who have put aside their careers are tired and our kids cannot afford the loss of another school year. We have three vaccines that work and are readily available, so what’s it going to take? Our kids are about to return to school and the unvaccinated are putting their lives at risk every day. Ask your questions, talk to your doctor, and get the vaccine. Let’s put this behind us.”

The officials are particularly concerned about the spread of the virus due to the Delta variant.

“Hard-working Angelenos, their customers and the general public deserve to be safe in public spaces,” O’Farrell added “The vaccines are our most effective form of protection, and the time to act is now.”

The motion calls for the city attorney to prepare and present an ordinance and to report back on how businesses and stakeholders can comply with the measure. The motion will next be heard in the Ad Hoc Committee on COVID-19 Recovery and Neighborhood Investment. The city is also exploring how to expand the “Vax UP LA” campaign for outreach and education.