Brothers and Sisters,
United Airlines announced this morning that it is mandating vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. By doing so, the company has joined a growing list of employers – including private businesses, nonprofits, and state and federal government agencies – that have mandated vaccines for employees. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters has been reviewing this issue in anticipation that our members would most likely face mandates, such as the one just announced. Our conclusion is that employers have the right to mandate vaccinations in most instances.
The Teamsters encourage members who wish to do so to get the vaccine, which evidence has shown is generally safe and effective at preventing or mitigating COVID-19 infections. However, our members who have bona fide medical or religious reasons for not getting vaccines should be exempt from United Airlines’ policy, and the Teamsters will defend members’ rights to those exemptions where they apply. The Teamsters will also reach out to United Airlines management to negotiate separation packages for members to whom exemptions do not apply who do not wish to get the vaccine. We will continue to update you as we receive more information.
In Solidarity,
Vincent Graziano
Coordinator, Maintenance and Related
Airline Division
International Brotherhood of Teamsters