EEOC Issues Updated Guidance On COVID Vaccination Policies

As employers continue to adapt in the wake of evolving federal, state, and local guidance, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently issued updated guidance regarding workplace vaccination policies.

The EEOC's updated guidance makes it abundantly clear that employers may lawfully require employees to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination as a condition to physically returning to the workplace, provided that they make reasonable accommodations for employees who are unable or unwilling to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination for sincerely held religious objections or disability-related reasons. The EEOC provides several examples of reasonable accommodations that may be offered to such employees, including face masks, social distancing, modified shift schedules, telework and reassignment. Notwithstanding, employers should be careful not to ask follow-up questions if an employee does not provide proof of vaccination because such inquiries could run afoul of the