ST. LOUIS COUNTY (KMOX) - The passing of a vaccine mandate for St. Louis County employees was met with an onslaught of opposition at Tuesday night's County Council meeting.
A 4-3 vote along party lines was enough to pass a vaccination requirement for the nearly 5,000 employees of St. Louis County. They will need to at least have the first dose of the vaccine by Oct. 1. Those who refuse will face discipline, including the possibility of being fired.
Some in attendance called the measure a violation of personal freedom.
"You will be charged with crimes against humanity," shouted one woman who had security called on her by the council.
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The bill's author, Shalonda Webb, explained there are medical and religious exemptions that will allow some not to be vaccinated.
"There's even, if you don't want to take the vaccination, just get tested," she says.
Councilman Tim Fitch, who voted no, noted that those employed under County Executive Dr. Sam Page are exempt from the vaccine requirement under the bill. Page replied and said, "Everyone that's in an appointed position is vaccinated."
"How do we know that?" Fitch asked.
"Because they told me," Page replied.
The bill doesn't apply to St. Louis County Police officers.
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