More US employers mandate COVID-19 vaccines

More US employers mandate COVID-19 vaccines Tyson Foods and Microsoft announce that all employees will need to show proof of vaccination. CIDRAP

According to the Associated Press, the Springfield, Arkansas, company will offer a $200 bonus for all front-line workers who receive a vaccine. So far, only half of Tyson employees are vaccinated against COVID-19. . . 

Tyson's move has come under criticism from the United Food and Commercial Workers, the union that represents Tyson employees. Union leaders say they are concerned Tyson is implementing this mandate before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has fully approved the vaccine.

To that end, the FDA is on a fast-track to approve the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by Labor Day, according to sources who spoke with the New York Times. The FDA has been urged by President Joe Biden and several public health experts to expedite the regulatory process, as many unvaccinated Americans said they would only get the vaccines once fully approved.

Full FDA approval also makes it easier for universities, government bodies, and even cities, to require vaccination.