This Sunday, July 25, after five days of debate, the parliament reached an agreement on the health bill between the two chambers, the Senate and the National Assembly.
An extension to restaurants/cafés and transport at the beginning of August
First, the extension of the health pass (complete vaccination or negative Covid test) to restaurants/cafés and long-distance transport was decided. Already in effect since last week in leisure and cultural venues with more than 50 people, the health pass will be extended in August to cafés, restaurants, fairs, and trade shows. It will also come into effect in medical establishments, except in cases of emergency.
The pass for 12-17-year-olds postponed to the end of September
While vaccination has been available to them since June 15, 12-17-year-olds will finally have access to their health pass on September 30. Initially planned for the 21st, this is one of the points modified during the debates between deputies and senators. Children over 16 will still have the option to get vaccinated without their parents’ permission.
Mandatory vaccination for healthcare professionals
Conversely, the bill makes vaccination mandatory for all healthcare professionals (hospital staff, clinics, nursing homes, and retirement homes, firefighters, military doctors, professionals, and volunteers working with the elderly, including home care aides). These professionals have until September 15 to receive their two doses of the vaccine. Except for those who provide a medical exemption from vaccination, other professionals who refuse vaccination will be prohibited from working and will face salary suspension.
The new bill also mentions the penalties the public faces. The absence of control in transportation will result in a fine of 1,500 euros for the manager, a year of imprisonment, and a 9,000 euro fine if fined more than three times in 30 days. For other places affected by the pass, a seven-day closure would be considered in the absence of sufficient checks. If the manager fails to adhere to the rules more than three times, they will face a one-year prison sentence and a 9,000 euro fine.
Employees of the establishments concerned by the pass will also have commitments to fulfill. They will be required to have a health pass from August 30. If an employee has no valid proof, they will be suspended and their salary will be blocked.
Sanctions and fines
If this suspension lasts for more than three days, the person concerned will be called in to find a position that does not require the pass.
Using a fraudulent pass will also be sanctioned, with a fine of 135€ to be paid. In case of repeat offenses, the person will face up to 6 months imprisonment and a fine of 3,750€.
New regulations concerning positive cases will also come into effect. A person tested positive for Covid-19 must isolate for ten days and can only leave in an emergency between 10 am and 12 pm. If the test is negative, isolation will end. The health insurance service will be responsible for ensuring compliance with isolation, and failure to adhere will result in a 1,500€ fine.
This new law enforcing the health pass comes into effect starting this Monday until November 15, beyond which only a new parliamentary vote could extend this measure.
