Standardized credentials showing proof of vaccination, known as “vaccine passports,” are gaining momentum in some states as a means of returning to normalcy and allowing businesses to open fully to those who prove they have been inoculated against COVID-19. A Florida executive order now prohibits businesses operating in Florida from implementing such measures with respect to customers. On April 2, 2021, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 21-81. The executive order prohibits businesses from requiring that patrons and customers show proof of vaccination to enter or receive service from a business. 

​The Florida Department of Health is gathering vitally important information for vaccination planning purposes. Help HCAOA help the Department by completing a quick survey by Thursday, December 17 at 12:00 p.m. ET. This information will be integral to our ongoing advocacy activities as it relates to ensuring that home care agencies receive priority status for the COVID-19 vaccine. All data will remain confidential, and will only be used in the aggregate.

​Florida voters approved Amendment 2, which will amend the state constitution to gradually increase the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by the year 2026. Florida joins California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York to become the eighth state in the country to raise its minimum wage to $15 an hour over the next several years.