LA County vaccine rule creates uneven field between bars and restaurants, say business owners

LOS ANGELES (KABC) – A day after Los Angeles County announced stricter vaccine requirements for bar patrons, business owners are offering mixed reactions over the policy’s impact on the economy while ensuring the safety of people.

The new policy announced this week will force bars, wineries, breweries, nightclubs and lounges to require customers to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter interior areas.

It will require clients to have received at least one dose of vaccine by October 7 and a full vaccination by November 4.

RELATED: New LA County Health Order Will Require Proof of COVID Vaccination for Indoor Bars and Wineries

The policy strongly recommends, but does not require, vaccination checks for restaurants.

According to some business owners, the fact that bars and restaurants fall under a different policy can create an uneven playing field. Especially when some bars serve food and some restaurants have bar areas.

The Sherman Restaurant on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks looks like a bar. But because the business serves food, it falls under the restaurant category and won’t be required to ask customers for proof of vaccination.

Still, owner Theo Mavro says the policy doesn’t seem right.

“It’s mandatory for bars,” says Mavro. “It’s not good for them at all. They’ve been through a lot in the last year and if unvaccinated people can walk into our restaurant and we don’t check them out, that obviously would be a bad thing. ‘was the case. mandated for us, that would make it a bit easier, because then we have to check it. “

Bob Kunz, owner of Highland Park Brewery, agrees. His establishment serves food but still falls under required and non-voluntary rules.

“I’m actually for this term,” Kunz says. “I just think if everyone is on the same playing field, operating in the same industry and in the same sphere, it makes more sense.”

The county says the requirement is appropriate for businesses that are considered to be at greater risk of transmitting coronavirus.

Even though Mavro’s restaurant is ruled out at this point, he’s concerned the warrant will force some customers to stay home.

“We are already in trouble,” says Mavro. “Since last year we’ve had problems. We’re not going to get over it. And I feel like fewer and fewer people are going to come out.”

Los Angeles City Council is working on a law that would require patrons of restaurants and gyms to have at least one dose of the vaccine. Gov. Gavin Newsom supports what the county is doing, but there is no indication the state is considering anything similar.