Wyoming Senate Bill SF0114

Wyoming 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/22
• Failed: 3/11/22

Caption

Employer COVID-19 vaccine mandates and exemptions.

Impact

The enactment of SF0114 affects the relationship between employers and employees regarding health mandates in the workplace. It establishes a process for employees to formally opt out of vaccination requirements, thereby enhancing job security for those unwilling to receive the vaccine for valid reasons. Additionally, the law protects employees from being disqualified from unemployment benefits should they refuse to comply with a vaccine mandate without having been granted an exemption. This is particularly important in a climate where vaccine mandates have been a contentious issue in many states across the U.S.

Summary

Senate File 0114, known as the Employer Vaccination Mandate Law, sets forth regulations regarding employer-issued COVID-19 vaccine mandates in Wyoming. The bill mandates that employers, including state and local government entities, cannot impose vaccine mandates without providing individual exemptions for employees. The grounds for these exemptions include medical reasons—backed by a signed statement from a licensed medical professional—religious beliefs, evidence of immunity, regular testing, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This comprehensive framework aims to protect employee rights while addressing workplace vaccination policies.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns regarding the law's ability to navigate the complexities of federal regulations and mandates. The bill states that exemptions can exist where contradictory federal laws apply, allowing for potential legal loopholes. Critics may argue that this creates an uncertainty, leading to disparities in how vaccine mandates are enforced across different organizations. This complexity may lead to challenges in implementation, as employers must be cautious to comply with both state and federal guidelines, further complicating the management of workplace health policies.