The ​OMB held a conference call on 9/15/2021for Contractor Reps regarding the Executive Order signed on 9/9/2021 that will mandate vaccination for federal contractors. I attended the conference and captured the following notes that I wanted to share with you to help you prepare.

First, additional OMB Guidance will be forthcoming by 9/24/2021. Look for it at their website: https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/. The guidance will provide:

• Additional guidance and definitions
• The timeline for implementation
• What the acceptable vaccination documentation is that will substantiate proof of vaccination
• Definitions of Covered Worksite and Employees
  • Will clarify whether remote workers working from home are covered.

The Executive Order will become operational effective 10/15/2021 for contractors and will apply to all contractors (small and large alike) who have a contract awarded, extended, or option exercised after 10/15/2021, AND where the contract is:

• More than $250,000 in value
• NOT performed overseas
• NOT for product purchases only

The Executive order applies to all prime contractor and subcontractor covered employees working on, or in connection with, a government contract (except for subcontractors that purely provide products).

Federal Contractor responsibilities will include three things:

1. All covered employees must be fully vaccinated
2. All covered employees must comply with social distancing and masking guidelines
3. The Contractor must designate a person to be responsible for ensuring compliance

Note that Federal Contractors will need to maintain proof of their compliance or risk paying a penalty of $14,000 per incidence.

That’s the gist of the Executive Order for now. Make sure to go to https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/ for the most current information.