STATEWIDE — Gov. Ralph Northam announced a COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all Virginia state workers.
Starting Sept. 1, more than 120,000 state employees will have to show proof of vaccination or submit to weekly COVID-19 testing.
“The only way to end this pandemic is for everyone to get vaccinated against COVID-19,” Northam said. “As head of state government, we have a responsibility to lead by example and ensure the safety of our employees and the people they serve.”
Northam’s announcement comes as Delta variant cases are rising in the Commonwealth.
The directive applies to all executive branch employees and state contractors who enter the workplace or have public-facing work duties. However, it does not apply to those who work remotely.
Employees who have not been fully vaccinated will also be required to wear masks indoors in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“The three vaccines are safe, effective, free, and widely available, and I strongly urge every eligible Virginian to get their shot. The time for waiting is over,” Northam added.
The full executive directive can be found here.
