Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson released the following statement regarding the action by the U.S. Supreme Court to halt the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate:
“Earlier today, the U.S. Supreme Court halted the Biden administration’s attempt to force employers to require COVID-19 vaccines or testing as a condition of employment. In its opinion today, the Court found that the federal government lacked the statutory authority to impose the mandate. Given the strongly worded ruling, I hope that the U.S. Department of Labor will withdraw the rule and finally put an end to this misguided mandate. I commend the Supreme Court for its decision, and I am thankful that the ruling provides North Carolina employers and employees with much-needed reassurance.
As I’ve said previously, a COVID-19 vaccine mandate represents a serious government overreach and is the wrong approach, especially given the current workforce shortage. I sincerely appreciate the patience and diligence of North Carolina’s workers and business community over these past few months of uncertainty and confusion. Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy workplace, and my department is committed to working with employers to make sure that happens. The Supreme Court’s decision today means that we can all refocus on strategies that will address the needs of business while at the same time protecting workers.”
Josh Dobson
Commissioner of Labor