FEDERAL VACCINE MANDATE for BUSINESSES with 100+ EMPLOYEES- STATUS UPDATE
On Nov. 11, OSHA released information and timelines on the federal vaccine mandate. These requirements are a moving target as lawsuits have currently put temporary stays on the mandate going into effect but we are publicizing so businesses can be prepared if the mandate is upheld. Key points:
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Employers will need to have workers fully vaccinated by January 4, 2022. This same timeline applies to employers covered by the previously announced government contractor vaccination mandate.
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For workers who are not vaccinated, the testing requirement begins on January 5 th . Prior to that date, unvaccinated workers do not need to be tested. • However, other parts of the ETS are effective December 5. Starting on that date, unvaccinated workers will need to adhere to masking requirements in the workplace, employers will need to provide four hours of paid leave for workers to get shots, and also provide additional leave for workers who need to recover from side effects.
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The ETS will be in effect for six months. After that, OSHA will determine if the standard should be made a permanent rule.
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WHO COUNTS? Having 100 employees is determined by company, not location - a company with over 100 employees but spread over multiple locations will need to comply. Part time employees count towards the 100 employee threshold, as do remote employees. Temporary & Seasonal workers count if they are employed while the Emergency Orders are in effect. Independent contractors DO NOT count.
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Read a fact sheet with more information from the US Chamber of Commerce.
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WHAT ABOUT THE TEMPORARY STAY? The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the mandate and issued a temporary stay, meanwhile several states are suing the federal government to block the mandate. Where does this leave businesses who may need to comply? In limbo unfortunately. If the mandate goes through, employers will need to develop a method for verifying the vaccination status of all employees and maintaining records of testing for non-vaccinated employees.
UVBA will be watching how this unfolds and will message out news if the mandate is upheld.
WORKFORCE PROGRAM FROM STATE of NH
College Graduate Incentive Program - created by an act of the Legislature in 2019 (RSA 12-O:46), helps employers strengthen their recruitment of candidates well-qualified to meet the demand of their industries, while encouraging students to stay in New Hampshire as they begin their careers. To participate in the program, employers agree to provide eligible students an annual incentive of at least $1,000 for each the first four years of their employment, in an agreement with the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA). More Here.
VERMONTING with THINKVERMONT.ORG
Vermont employers can dangle a carrot to attract new workers - the Worker Relocation Grant program will pay between $5000-$7500 to relocated workers to Vermont who establish residency. Starting in February 2022, the Remote Worker Grant will go in effect to encourage those who can relocated to Vermont but work for companies outside the state. Learn More.
