Having a temporary and then permanent standard in our state has helped, in my opinion, develop more awareness about Covid-19 and means for protection, in addition to keeping the exposure and infection rate low among our employees.

As someone who is responsible for implementing the requirements of these standards, develop the Plan and conduct training, there were times when it was overwhelming to do it in addition to my regular job duties. However, looking back,  I can see the benefits of having a compliance framework to assist employers and their employees navigate the pandemic and post-pandemic era. This framework, combined with the commitment of our leaders, had helped us stay safe and working, despite the polarized beliefs and views held by some employees at times.

Having to comply with these standards in VA had created for employers a different, more effective response to the pandemic in comparison with other states (based on conversations I had with professionals in other states (MD, GA, NY).

Moving forward, the Amendment would help, in my opinion, employers close the gap between their employees who are vaccinated and those who are not. 

Thank you.