The Florida Health Department fined leon county government over $3.5 million for violating the state's ban.
The Health Department said in a statement that officials in Leon County violated state law when they mandated in late July that the county's 700 employees provide proof of vaccination no later than Oct. 1. Then, on Oct. 4. Leon county officials fired 14 employees for failing to comply with the requirement.
"It is unacceptable that Leon County violated Florida law, infringed on current and former employees, medical privacy, and fired loyal public servants because of their personal health decisions," Gov. Ron DeSantis said.
Leon County Director Vincent Long said in a statement Tuesday that the county believes its vaccination requirement is "legally justifiable" and necessary to keep the public safety.
The governor's position in this instance unfortunately appears to be less of a public health strategy and more about political strategy," he said. "Leon County fully intends to enforce its rights using any remedies available to settle all arguments about the applicability of the statute at issue so that we can continue to direct our full and undivided attention on combating the virus, protecting our employees and citizens, and fulfilling our obligations to our community.
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