A new Covid-19 vaccine mandate is expected to affect more than 100 million workers nationwide.
There are a few new rules for workers under the latest mandate from the Biden administration. The first rule covers companies with more than 100 employees, stating those employees must get vaccinated by Jan. 4 or test for Covid-19 once a week.
The second rule states health care workers must be vaccinated by the same deadline but does not providee the option to bypass getting the shot.
Cindy Doty, a senior human resources consultant for multiple companies, said she understands just how complicated the rules can be, particularly when it comes to exemptions. She advises employees on how to handle the situation.
“I think the important thing is just for employers to stay as informed as possible and for employees, if they have questions, to speak with their HR representatives," said Doty.
Several mandates have come down through several channels and because of that, Doty said, only your HR department can say which policy applies to you.
As of now, employers are not required to pay for testing for employees. However, if an employee decides to get vaccinated, that employer must provide them the time off to do so and provide sick leave for any workers with side effects.
