Toronto 
Quebec says residents who are unvaccinated against COVID-19 will have to pay a health tax.
As omicron variant-induced COVID-19 cases are putting strain on Quebec’s hospitals, Premier François Legault today during a press conference said a health contribution will be charged to all adults that do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
Legault did not specify the amount that will be charged but mentioned that unvaccinated Quebecers who are over the age of 18 will face a “significant” fine if they are not vaccinated in the next few weeks.
He also said people who can not take the COVID-19 vaccine due to medical reasons will be exempted and that the health tax could be included in provincial tax filings.
Quebec Premier said 10 per cent of unvaccinated people take up around 50 per cent of beds in the ICU and there should be consequences for the segment that is causing harm to the majority of the population.
Quebec today reported 2,742 hospitalizations with an increase of 188 compared to yesterday. 255 individuals are in intensive care due to COVID-19 related illnesses.
As per the COVID-19 Tracker website, 85.246% of all people in Quebec have received at least one dose and 77.975% are fully vaccinated.
If the health tax is implemented, Quebec will be the first province to tax residents for not taking the COVID-19 vaccine.
Quebec recently brought back night curfew to abate omicron surge.
