On September 14, a federal district court judge in New York State temporarily blocked enforcement of the portion of New York’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for healthcare workers that excluded religious exemption as the basis for a reasonable accommodation. Previously, the state mandate denied religious exemptions for those who worked in patient-care settings.
It’s important to note that the order did not overturn the overall vaccine mandate and that non-Medical Center employees have always been able to apply for a religious exemption and will be able to continue to do so.
To see the full message, visit the URMC COVID-19 portal (login required). The University strongly encourages vaccination for all employees. As an academic institution and medical center grounded in research, patient care, and education, we uphold the science that proves vaccines are safe and effective and believe it’s the best way to protect each other and our community.