Virginia teachers’ union backs vaccine or testing requirement; New law changes process for student mandate
Virginia | August 16, 2021
(WRIC)-A push to mandate coronavirus vaccines or require regular testing for Virginia’s educators gained momentum this week as the state’s largest teachers’ union backed the policy for the first time.
A possible vaccine mandate for students is likely to take much longer. A new decision-making process just took effect last month and, unlike past immunization requirements, the Virginia General Assembly will not have a say.
In an interview on Friday, Virginia Education Association President Dr. James Fedderman said the union, which represents more than 40,000 teachers and support professionals, is encouraging school districts to consider vaccine mandates or required weekly testing for staff.
Fedderman’s comments are in line with the National Education Association, which shifted its stance in a statement on Thursday.
Fedderman said about 90 percent of their membership nationwide is already fully vaccinated, though he acknowledged some are opposed to the idea of a mandate.
“We’re hearing concerns from members who feel as though their rights are being violated,” Fedderman said. “We just want to ensure the health, safety and welfare of students and employees.”
California recently became the first state to announce the adoption of this policy for all public and private schools statewide.
So far, Gov. Ralph Northam is leaving it up to localities. .. (Excerpts from ABC 8 News)