Last Updated on May 18, 2021
Businesses in Washington state are being allowed and encouraged to give a free alcoholic beverage to any individual willing to accept one of the controversial COVID-19 vaccines and show proof of vaccination in a move the Liquor and Cannabis Board says they hope will encourage more people to vaccinate themselves against COVID-19.
Local media reports that the move is meant to “encourage vaccinations” and required a special decision from the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board. Businesses are allowed and encouraged to provide one alcoholic beverage to any individual who can provide proof of vaccination, with the caveat that the business must not advertise or promote the experience as “free”. Instead, businesses must advertise that they are buying the alcoholic beverage on behalf of the vaccinated individual. The policy will remain in effect until June 30.
This comes as multiple corporations are offering free perks to those who receive vaccines. Krispy Kreme is famously offering one free doughnut per day to individuals who take one of the controversial vaccines, and similarly requires consumers to prove their vaccination status to receive the unhealthy treat. According to their website, “Any qualified guest needs to show their COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card to redeem the COVID-19 Vaccine Offer.” Krispy Kreme currently has 10 locations in Washington, meaning those who accept one of the controversial vaccines could potentially have a free doughnut and free alcohol simultaneously.
While multiple private companies – some of which are likely also supporting Joe Biden’s planned private sector vaccine passport push – are offering free perks to the vaccinated, the state of Ohio is taking a more direct approach: All Ohioans who receive one of the controversial vaccines are being entered into a lottery, and five lucky winners will each receive $1 million. Minors who are vaccinated are similarly being entered into a scholarship lottery for higher education.
As National File reported, “DeWine noted that the cash for the lottery will be withdrawn from federal coronavirus relief funds, and boasted, ‘I know that some may say, DeWine, you’re crazy! This million-dollar drawing idea of yours is a waste of money.’ But truly, the real waste at this point in the pandemic — when the vaccine is readily available to anyone who wants it — is a life lost to COVID-19.'”
