Italian Gov’t Makes Covid-19 Health Pass Mandatory for All Workers

The Italian government imposed a new measure on Thursday, approving COVID-19 health passes compulsory for all workers.

The measure is set to begin from October 15 and remain in force until the end of the year. Both public and private sectors have to either show proof of vaccination, a negative test or recent recovery from infection.

Any employee who fails to present a valid health certificate will be suspended on no pay, but cannot be sacked, according to a draft of the decree seen by Reuters.

On the other hand, people who ignore the decree and go to work regardless will face a fine of between 600 to 1,500 euros ($705-$1,175).

While some European Union states have ordered their health workers to get COVID vaccines, none have made the Green Pass mandatory for all employees, making Italy the first European country to do so.

The pass was originally conceived to ease travel around Europe, but Italy was among a group of countries that swiftly made it a requirement for those wanting to access venues such as museums, gyms and indoor dining in restaurants.

Moreover, officials believe that this step may encourage people to continue shunning vaccines. However, a government source said the cabinet would keep a firm lid on prices for tests, imposing a maximum fee of 15 euros for adults.