WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement on voting to repeal President Biden’s vaccine mandate under the Congressional Review Act:

“Vaccines save lives and are the best defense against COVID-19, but President Biden’s vaccine mandate for businesses is an unconstitutional federal overreach that will destroy jobs,” said Senator Tillis. “In today’s economy, many businesses are already struggling due to rising inflation and labor shortages, and this mandate will only hurt them more. I am proud to support the effort to repeal this burdensome mandate so private businesses, big and small, can make the best decision for themselves and their employees.”

BACKGROUND:

• On September 8, President Joe Biden announced vaccine mandates that extend to 80 million private sector workers and additional mandates on millions of federal workers and contractors. 
• To implement this mandate, OSHA issued an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS). Employers that fail to comply will be fined $13,653 for each offense and willful violations will result in a $136,532 penalty. This rule places unrealistic compliance burdens on employers—especially during a time where business and supply chains are already under duress. For example, 30 days after publication, all requirements other than testing for employees must be in place. In addition, 60 days after publication, all testing requirements must be in place.
• The Congressional Review Act (CRA) can be used by Congress to overturn certain federal agency regulations and actions through a joint resolution of disapproval. If a CRA joint resolution of disapproval is approved by both houses of Congress and signed by the President, or if Congress successfully overrides a presidential veto, the rule at issue is invalidated. 

###