The Biden administration has resolved the conundrum faced by American corporations trying to navigate two conflicting pandemic realities: a desperate desire to return to normal business operations and the requirements of a vaccine mandate. However, many companies have been hesitant to implement a blanket vaccine policy due to the risk of losing essential employees or potential new hires.
Some states have implemented varying vaccine regulations, while others have outright banned them. The political divisiveness surrounding vaccines further complicates matters for employers, as they do not want to fall under the radar of political activist groups or anger their staff.
Biden's recent regulations mean that all U.S. companies with 100 or more employees must take a firm stance on vaccination. This is a boon for Walmart, which already has the tools to manage its biggest pandemics issues. Employees may need to be regularly vaccinated or tested, with no fear of losing market share to competitors.
While some corporations may initially challenge Biden's new rules in court, many will likely breathe a sigh of relief. The ongoing challenge faced by businesses during this pandemic is navigating constantly changing and sometimes contradictory guidelines from local, state, and federal authorities.
Corporate America welcomed the news, particularly the Business Roundtable, a powerful group of influential U.S. corporations led by Joshua Bolton, former White House Chief of Staff for President George W. Bush. Bolton praised Biden's ongoing vigilance against the coronavirus pandemic, recognizing the importance of vaccines and tests in its suppression.
Despite a previous statement from the National Association of Manufacturers expressing hope that the order would not disrupt their business, manufacturing CEO Jay Timmons welcomed the move as both a life-saving measure and an economic necessity, with our recovery and quality of life dependent on ending the pandemic.
Even the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, historically a Democratic adversary of Biden, pledged to advocate for its members to accept the new rules to ensure employers have the necessary resources, guidance, and flexibility to ensure their employees' safety, protect their workers and customers, and meet public health requirements.
Consumer Brands Association, a group representing 2,000 packaged goods brands, also welcomed the move to increase vaccine rates for essential workers. However, the group noted that there is still a need for clarity on how their members should implement the rules.
As for small businesses, they are not directly affected by the Biden regulations. However, some fear potential talent poaching from larger companies, exacerbating the existing labor shortage. Others may potentially let go of some employees to meet the 100-employee threshold, narrowing job prospects for some candidates.
Most American workers – approximately two-thirds – must either get vaccinated, get regular tests, or find employment elsewhere. This is a blessing for businesses that have long sought protection for their employees, which Biden's regulations have now provided.
Further Reading:
The Business Roundtable, led by Joshua Bolton, supports Biden's relentless approach to combating the coronavirus pandemic, recognizing the importance of vaccines and tests in the fight against the pandemic.
Businesses challenging Biden's vaccine mandate risk losing out on potential new hires, as their outdated views may put the health and safety of their employees in danger, which no business wants to risk.
