KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – As promised, Western Michigan University has begun fining students under its new COVID-19 testing policy that took effect January 10.
WWMT-TV reports that during week one of the spring semester, 678 students were fined for missing weekly tests. In week two, the number dropped to 523. Some of those were people who were fined twice. A university official told the TV station that students had been fined $60,050 as of Tuesday afternoon and that money would be used to offset COVID-19 testing costs.
Last month, the university announced it will start fining students who miss their weekly tests. Students in the weekly testing protocols are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19. WMU said in order to be considered fully vaccinated, a booster shot is required.
For those who miss a test, they’ll be fined $50 for the first five misses. The fine increases to $100 for each miss after that. Once a student owes more than $300, they cannot register for classes, according to the school.
