It was almost certain that a majority would vote for the bill. In addition to the government factions of the conservative ÖVP and the Greens, many members of the Social Democratic opposition and the liberal party NEOS have also shown support. Of the parliamentary parties, only the right-wing party FPÖ has strongly criticized the plan, because it would violate the most essential fundamental rights of citizens and citizens no longer receive equal treatment.
The government says the law wants to avoid a new national lockdown after four previous lockdowns. But unvaccinated people remain in lockdown. The vaccination obligation does not apply to pregnant people and people who can demonstrate a medical reason. The checks are expected to start in mid-March. Refusals risk a fine of 600 to 3,600 euros, depending on their income. So far, 75 percent of Austrian adults have been vaccinated.
At the beginning of February, the Federal Council, the Austrian upper house, also has to vote on the law.