The state of Texas has recently passed Senate Bill 7, which prohibits private employers from requiring an employee, contractor, or applicant to get the COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment or a contract position. Employers cannot take an “adverse action” against an individual for refusing to receive the vaccine.
Exceptions to the rule apply to many employees who work in healthcare, meaning that a health facility, healthcare provider, or physician can enforce a “reasonable policy” that requires the use of protective medical equipment by those who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 based on the level of risk they present to patients.
Employees have the right to submit claims of employer violations. Private employers will be fined $50,000 for each violation.
The law goes into effect on February 6, 2024.
