A San Jose gym has racked up $550,000 in fines for defying health orders by staying open for indoor exercise for months, according to Santa Clara County.
That dollar amount levied against the gym keeps climbing every day the business continues to remain open for indoor use in defiance of county public health orders.
The gym, California Ripped Fitness, says it’s exercising its constitutional right to protest. A sign on the front door reads: "This protest and choice of the people to peaceably assemble is protected by the First Amendment."
The owner also said health clubs are essential and should remain open.
The gym opened at 5 a.m. Friday, with several people waiting to get in, but no one was willing to comment.