Georgia Federal District Court Judge temporarily blocks COVID-19 vaccine mandate for federal contractors

A federal judge in Georgia has temporarily blocked a Biden Administration rule that would require federal contractors and subcontractors to ensure that all covered employees are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

The Details:

Vaccine Mandate:

In early September, President Biden announced an executive order that required COVID-19 vaccination for contractors that do business with the federal government. The executive order also required contractors to comply with guidance published by the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force. In updated guidance, the Task Force said federal contractors and subcontractors would have until January 18, 2022 to ensure that all covered employees are fully vaccinated.

Court Decision:

The decision by the federal judge in Georgia temporarily blocks the Biden Administration from implementing and enforcing the vaccine requirement. The decision applies nationwide and will remain in effect pending future court proceedings.

Next Steps:

If you are a federal contractor or subcontractor, watch for developments closely to determine whether the mandate becomes blocked permanently, or if the Biden Administration ultimately prevails and is able to implement the vaccine mandate. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.