LOC News

Amendment Introduced to Allow COVID Vaccine Incentives

An amended version of HB 2818, allowing employers to offer incentives and accommodations for employees to get COVID-19 vaccines without violating equal pay requirements, has been heard in the Senate Committee on Labor and Business, chaired by Senator Chuck Riley (D-Hillsboro).

HB 2818A, introduced by Representative Julie Fahey (D-Eugene), deals with wage security but has a relating clause sufficiently broad enough to allow for other employment related amendment. If an employer offers an employee a monetary or other incentive for getting the COVID-19 vaccine, they could be subject to complaint for violating Oregon’s requirement to provide equal pay for similar positions.  

The -A4 amendment, offered by Senator Kathleen Taylor (D-Portland), would allow encouragement and assistance, such as paid time off for vaccine appointments and side-effect recovery without being subject to a complaint. The amendment is expected to receive additional consideration in the coming weeks.

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

Last Updated 4/30/21