The Austrian government said Wednesday that it will not enforce a COVID-19 vaccine mandate that would force most adults to receive the shot by mid-March or face fines. The mandate for peopled aged 18 and older was signed into law in February, coming about two months after it was announced in Austria’s Parliament. With the mandate, Austria became the first country in the European Union to do so. Starting this month, Austrian police would be able to check people’s vaccination status during traffic stops and on the street. Those who don’t have proof of vaccination would be asked in writing to provide proof or face fines of up to 600 euros ($653). For subsequent violations, the fines could reach 3,600 euros ($3,974). Austria’s Minister for the EU, Karoline Edtstadler, announced Wednesday that the law would not go into effect and said it represents an “encroachment of fundamental rights” that can no longer …