Biden sets broad new vaccine, mask guidelines for millions of federal workers

Federal workers and onsite contractors will have to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or wear masks, practice social distancing and submit to regular testing under sweeping new guidelines the White House announced on Thursday.

The measures are U.S. President Joe Biden's latest effort to spur some reluctant Americans to get vaccinated as the Delta variant of the coronavirus ravages the unvaccinated in particular.

Government employees who do not show they have been vaccinated will be subject to weekly or twice-weekly COVID-19 tests and restrictions on official travel.

"The administration will encourage employers across the private sector to follow this strong model," the White House said in a statement ahead of expected remarks by Biden.

Along with the new requirements, the White House said Biden was directing the Defense Department to look into "how and when" it will require members of the military to take the vaccine, along with other required inoculations.

And state, local and U.S. territorial governments will be able to dip into $350 billion in coronavirus aid to provide $100 payments for every newly vaccinated American to boost COVID-19 inoculation rates, the U.S. Treasury Department said on Thursday. read more

The federal government is the largest employer in the United States and Biden's move could serve as an example for private businesses and other institutions to follow as they assess getting workers back into offices and work places.

"As a large employer, the largest in this country, who cares about individuals who keep the government running, we have an obligation to be good stewards of the work force and ensure their health and their safety," White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.