Joe Biden, U.S. President: “The bottom line: We’re going to protect vaccinated workers from unvaccinated coworkers. We’re going to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by increasing the share of the workforce that is vaccinated and businesses all across America.”
“I will sign an executive order that will now require all executive branch federal employees to be vaccinated, all. And I’ve signed another executive order that will require federal contractors to do the same. If you want to work with the federal government and do business with us, get vaccinated. If you want to do business with the federal government, vaccinate your workforce. And tonight, I’m removing one of the last remaining obstacles that make it difficult for you to get vaccinated. The Department of Labor will require employers with 100 or more workers to give those workers paid time off to get vaccinated. No one should lose pay in order to get vaccinated or take a loved one to get vaccinated. Today, in total, the vaccine requirements in my plan will affect about 100 million Americans, two thirds of all workers.”
“My message to unvaccinated Americans is this: What more is there to wait for? What more do you need to see? We’ve made vaccinations free, safe and convenient. The vaccine is (received) FDA approval. Over 200 million Americans have gotten at least one shot. We’ve been patient but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us.”
“For the vast majority of you who’ve gotten vaccinated, I understand your anger at those who haven’t gotten vaccinated. I understand the anxiety about getting a breakthrough case. But as the science makes clear, if you’re fully vaccinated, you’re highly protected from severe illness, even if you get COVID-19. In fact, recent data indicates there’s only one confirmed positive case per 5000 fully vaccinated Americans per day. You’re as safe as possible and we’re doing everything we can to keep it that way. Keep it that way. Keep you safe.”
“We remain at a critical moment, a critical time. We have the tools. Now, we just have to finish the job with truth, with science, with confidence, and together as one nation. Look, we’re the United States of America. There’s nothing, not a single thing we’re unable to do if we do it together. So let’s stay together. God bless you all and all those who continue to serve on the front lines of this pandemic and may God protect our troops. Get vaccinated.”
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