LOC News

Bill to Allow Vaccine Incentives Passes Senate

Legislation allowing employers to provide an incentive or accommodation to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations has passed the Senate. As introduced, HB 2818, sponsored by Representative Julie Fahey (D-Eugene), deals with wage claims and compensation, but has a broad relating clause that allowed for amendments dealing with other employment matters.

Employers wishing to provide additional compensation of paid time off to employees for getting the COVD-19 vaccines were stymied by Oregon’s equal pay law, which did not cover this eventuality. Language in HB 2818 protects employers from equal pay violation claims for actions they take or have already taken to facilitate a vaccinated workforce.

HB 2818 now heads back the House for a concurrence vote, and then to Governor Brown’s desk for signature.

Contact: Scott Winkels, Lobbyist - swinkels@orcities.org

Last Updated 6/11/21