Now
that Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine has full FDA approval, some
Connecticut workers are wondering how long before their employers require them
to get the shot.
President
Joe Biden called on employers to put more requirements in place during
remarks Monday from the White House.
"If
you're a business leader who has been waiting for full FDA approval to require
vaccinations, I call on you to do that now, require it,” he said.
Labor
attorney Eric Brown says whether or not more businesses require the vaccine may
depend “on where your boss stands on those political and philosophical issues.”
He says the law isn't going to help you sidestep that kind of requirement
without a medical or religious exemption.
"They
don't even have to name the religion, but if they have a sincere belief, the
employer should go to pretty great lengths to provide an exemption,” he said.
State
and federal officials still say getting as many people vaccinated as possible
is still the best way to end the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts say
workers who are still hesitant may have a little more leverage than they
think.
"Anytime
an employer wants to get something from an employee, or vice versa, that's
fertile ground for negotiation," says Brown.
Brown
says in a labor market that favors employees, vaccine hesitant workers may be
able to suggest alternatives, such as getting tested, wearing a mask or
periodically working from home.
He
expects some companies will allow that kind of plan B option rather than losing
skilled workers.
"If
the employee comes to the table with those ideas and suggestions, and they're a
valuable employee, the employer is probably going to want to consider those
options,” says Brown.
Officials
say more than 74% of Connecticut residents over the age of 12 are already fully
vaccinated.