TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — The Special Olympics has dropped a coronavirus vaccine mandate for its games in Orlando after Florida moved to fine the organization $27.5 million for violating a state law against such requirements.
Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday announced the organization had removed the requirement for its competition in the state, which is scheduled to run June 5 to June 12.
100 Special Olympics Indiana athletes, Unified partners and coaches, collectively known as Team Indiana, left for Orlando Saturday.
The USA Games will feature competition in 19 Olympic-type sports, with Team Indiana fielding teams for basketball, bocce, bowling, golf, softball, swimming, track and field, and volleyball and youth leadership.
The Florida health department notified the Special Olympics of the fine in a letter Thursday that said the organization would be fined $27.5 million for 5,500 violations of state law for requiring proof of coronavirus vaccination for attendees or participants.
-
Owen County deputy released from hospital after being shot during welfare check
An Owen County detective sergeant who was shot during a welfare check last week has been released from the hospital.
Eiteljorg Museum hosts free Juneteenth event
You can go to the Eiteljorg Museum for free on Friday to celebrate Juneteenth. The museum is offering a chance to celebrate holiday through music, dance and interactive activities.
Gov. Braun declares disaster emergency for 63 Indiana counties after storms
Governor Mike Braun has declared a state of disaster emergency for 63 Indiana counties following powerful storms that swept across the state Wednesday.
Man dies after shooting on Indy’s near east side
A man is dead after a shooting Thursday night in the 2000 block of East Washington Street on Indy’s near east side, police say.