CDC: Guidance for the Fully Vaccinated now recommends wearing a mask indoors. Decisions to require masks are being made in Indiana at the local level for counties and school systems.
New data from the state of Indiana on surging COVID-19 cases.
COVID Stops Here campaign from the Indiana Chamber and Wellness Council of Indiana; recognizes employers with at least a 70% vaccination rate among employees and offers guidance for those companies not yet at that level.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, HIPPA rules do not apply to employers or employment records. HIPAA only applies to HIPAA-covered entities – health care providers, health plans and health care clearinghouses – and, to some extent, to their business associates. Thus, employees in general can ask employees about their vaccine status or require proof of vaccination – that is not a HIPAA violation (unless a HIPPA-covered entity). Employees may decide whether or not to provide that information to their employer.
We encourage any employer considering or implementing a vaccine mandate to consult legal counsel to ensure the policy is in line with federal law and guidelines. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, a mandatory workplace vaccination program must meet standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of being “job related” and “consistent with business necessity.” Under the ADA, employers are generally required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees who, due to a disability, do not get vaccinated against COVID-19.
Info on employers hosting vaccine clinics or group attending an existing clinics.
As employers, it is imperative to understand that we remain in the midst of a pandemic, with Indiana seeing a growing number of COVID cases. Wellness Council of Indiana Executive Director Jennifer Pferrer discusses best practices for employers:
Wellness Council/Indiana Chamber Operations Effective July 5, 2021:
The Wellness Council/Indiana Chamber office is now open to visitors. Wellness Council Staff is currently working remotely to help meet your needs; access contact information for all Chamber team members.
NOTE: The Chamber is strongly encouraging ALL staff and visitors to wear a mask, in line with national and local recommendations. Masks are available at our front desk.