Utah: Hundreds pack hearing to oppose Biden vaccine plan

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Hundreds of people not wearing masks packed a legislative hearing Monday to urge Utah lawmakers to fight President Joe Biden’s plan to require most workers to get either vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19.

The vast majority of people who attended the hearing in person criticized Biden’s plan, saying they fear it will infringe on personal freedom and cripple Utah’s economy. Sen. Curt Bramble said that about 600 to 700 people attended the hearing in person with another 200 who attended virtually.

The mandate would impact about 3% of businesses in Utah, but those companies account for more than 60% of employees in the state, according to figures provided by legislative staffers.

Last week, Republican Gov. Spencer Cox threatened to veto any legislation that blocks businesses from mandating employees to get the vaccine. He has said that he opposes government mandating vaccines but supports businesses implementing their own mandates. ...