Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2021-12-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – Health solutions and preventative wellness have never been more crucial. Today, six in 10 Americans live with at least one chronic disease, many of which can be prevented by eating well, being physically active, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and getting regular health screenings.

People are increasingly choosing to prioritize their well-being today to enjoy a longer, more fulfilling life. Google’s 2021 Year in Search results illustrate this momentum, as “women’s health” was searched more in 2021 than ever before in the United States, while interest in mental health broke records globally.

Now more than ever, individuals are seeking experts to support their desired changes, turning to health coaches and educators to help them live healthier lifestyles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports overall employment of health education specialists and community health workers is projected to grow 17% from 2020 to 2030 — much faster than the average for all other occupations.

Career outlook aside, if you feel passionate about learning how to be healthier and achieving your own wellness goals, a career as a health coach could allow you to turn that passion into a meaningful career.

This was the case for ASU Online student Vicki Sheerin, who developed a life-altering passion for health and wellness after realizing weight loss would allow her to be more active in her children’s lives.

“I once struggled with weight gain, then had a moment in 2018 where I felt a spark telling me I had to do something about it,” she said. “My fire and determination [for this profession] came from seeing how much my weight loss was having a ripple effect in others’ lives.”

What does a health and fitness coach do?

In this newer profession, lifestyle and fitness practitioners are expert facilitators of mindset and behavior change. Health coaches serve an important need by empowering people to take control of their well-being. In doing so, they help people develop a sense of purpose and cultivate lasting behavioral changes necessary to optimize their well-being, foster thriving and help prevent disease.

Health coaches are not limited to working in any singular location. Those with a background or degree in fitness science can “work in the burgeoning field of wellness, supporting health and well-being in a variety of settings, working with individuals, groups or communities,” said Dr. Devi Davis-Strong, a lecturer at Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions.

By becoming a health coach, you can help others improve their health through guidance and counseling, providing the resources necessary to advance the wellness of individuals and communities alike. If the idea of empowering people to live healthier lives sounds exciting, you may consider starting on the path to becoming a health coach.

How to become a health and fitness coach

To create such lasting change as a wellness coach, one needs to be sufficiently knowledgeable about evidence-based processes of lifestyle change and lifestyle, wellness and positive psychological knowledge and skills. Your first step to entering this fulfilling career path is finding an educational program that provides the necessary background and helps you obtain useful credentials.

Arizona State University, for example, launched the first online bachelor’s program in the nation focused on preparing students for the fields of both health and wellness coaching and fitness science. ASU Online’s Bachelor of Science in health sciences with a focus on healthy lifestyles and fitness science uses an interdisciplinary approach and online simulated hands-on experiential learning to provide students with the skills needed to work in preventative health care and the knowledge necessary to pursue advanced health degrees. Courses cover core subjects including:

• Nutrition
• Physical fitness
• Stress management
• Coaching and behavioral health psychology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Evidence-based practice

According to Karen Gregory-Mercado, Ph.D, MPH, MCHES, NBC-HWC, director and senior lecturer for the degree, the curriculum centers on two foundational components: healthy lifestyles and fitness sciences.

“Healthy lifestyles focuses on teaching skills and competencies supporting meaningful behavioral changes and improved wellbeing by expanding knowledge about health theories, coaching psychology, ethical principles and evidence-based applications in nutrition, stress and substance use/abuse. Fitness sciences prepares students to design, communicate and utilize evidence-based physical activity programs,” she said.

A degree in this area can lead to a fulfilling career, or prepare students for further certification. While completing this degree through ASU Online, students may sit for nationally-accredited, advanced certification in health and fitness areas such as those offered by the American College of Sports Medicine.

“These certifications, in addition to coursework, prepare graduates for opportunities in worksite wellness, community wellness and fitness centers, health coaching, health education and health promotion,” said Dr. Davis-Strong.

Career prospects in health sciences

With the background provided by this degree in healthy lifestyles and fitness science, you could pursue a wide variety of positions, including:

• Health and wellness coach
• Behavior management specialist
• Occupational health and safety specialist
• Medical and health services manager
• Community health worker
• Fitness and wellness coordinator
• Medical and health services manager
• Postsecondary health specialties teacher

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a much higher than average job outlook for Group Fitness Instructors and Health Education Specialists over the next decade. These careers are expected to grow 39% and 17% between 2020 and 2030, respectively.

To learn more about how you can earn a degree to begin your health and fitness sciences profession, visit ASUOnline.asu.edu.

2021-12-26T07:31:00

(BPT) – Americans are feeling more hopeful about the upcoming year, at least when it comes to their finances. This year, more than 62% of Americans feel optimistic about the future despite the unknown, which includes concerns about inflation and rising costs. In addition, 72% are confident they’ll be in a better financial position in 2022, according to Fidelity Investments’ 2022 New Year’s Financial Resolutions study. Among the next generation, those ages 18-35, this number is even higher, at 81%.

“The country has been through a seemingly unrelenting roller coaster over the past two years. It’s encouraging to see people feeling more hopeful and placing a priority on themselves,” said Stacey Watson, Head of Life Events Planning at Fidelity Investments. “Actions taken at the start of the pandemic — such as budgeting better and replenishing that emergency savings fund — are becoming permanent habits for many.”

Almost one-third of study respondents described 2022 as a year of hope. This prevailing sentiment of cautious optimism is echoed in how many families feel about their financial stability. This year, 34% of respondents feel they are in better financial shape compared to last year; last year, only 29% could say the same. Perhaps as a result of this feeling of hopefulness, 68% of Americans are considering financial resolutions for the new year.

Making a financial resolution

The most popular goals for those considering a financial resolution are saving more money, paying down debt and spending less money. Some of the main reasons people gave for making financial resolutions were to achieve greater peace of mind and live a debt-free life.

Beyond hope, the research also suggests the simple act of setting a resolution may have a transformative effect. More people who made financial resolutions at the start of 2021 say they are in better financial shape now compared to those who didn’t make financial resolutions. They’re also more optimistic about the future—and 39% feel strongly that they will be better off financially in 2022 (compared to 15% of those who did not make a resolution).

For those looking to save more in 2022, the objectives are somewhat split. According to the study, 51% plan to save for long-term goals, while 49% aim at short-term targets like boosting emergency funds or saving for a mortgage. Among the next generation, 62% plan to increase their retirement contribution in the year ahead at a far higher level than older Americans (34%).

And what do people say they want to do once they’ve paid off the bills and set aside money for the future? Americans are looking to get away if it’s safe to do so, as travel tops the list for where people plan to spend their extra dollars.

Staying the course

While resolutions are an important start, the real goal is to keep good financial routines going strong well beyond January, so they become lifelong habits. Based on suggestions from those successful in keeping resolutions in 2021, to increase the likelihood of success, you should set:

1. Realistic goals

2. Clear and specific goals

3. Smaller milestones to stay motivated

As you achieve your objectives, remember to enjoy the feeling of making progress, so you stay motivated to reach your goals.

“Simply taking the one relatively simple step of setting a goal can help you feel better about the direction you are headed. This has been proven time and again,” said Watson. “Once you’ve set a goal, take the time to develop a plan for how to achieve it. The good news is, there are several free resources out there to do just that, which can be helpful — especially for those whose resolution is to spend less in 2022.”

Working with a financial professional can be helpful. They can help you set clear and specific financial goals and realistic milestones, providing you with greater peace of mind. Fidelity can help you create a free plan based on what matters most to you, whether that’s saving for retirement, college, an emergency fund or even that vacation you’ve been waiting to take. You can adjust your plan as your priorities evolve. It all starts with setting a goal. Visit Fidelity.com/FreePlan to get started.

2021-12-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – New Chase research finds that children as young as six are learning about saving, spending and using a bank from their parents.

2021-12-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – As we continue to navigate the economic impact of the pandemic, a Prudential Financial survey* finds more than half of Americans have made a significant change in their lives in the past 18 months, and three-quarters are considering life changes in the future; changes that include switching jobs, taking time off from work and retirement.

According to Brad Hearn, Prudential’s president of Retail Advice and Solutions, for those considering making a major financial change, now isn’t necessarily the time to throw caution to the wind. “For many, the impact of the pandemic has been life changing, from income disruption, job loss and even reduced or eliminated employer contributions to insurance and retirement plans. Any financial decision needs to be carefully planned before executing,” said Hearn.

To help get your financial status ready to support a significant change in your life, Hearn offers these tips:

• Conduct a financial wellness assessment: Take advantage of free tools like this financial wellness assessment to help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. From retirement planning to household budgeting, you can see where your finances currently stand and how to plan ahead for the future.
• Set clear goals and make a plan: What do you plan to achieve with your money in the next few years and in the long run? Maybe it’s to plan for a secure retirement, maybe it’s to manage debt or it’s about upping your investing game. Set a detailed plan toward the goals. You can also tap a financial advisor for guidance and help.
• Focus on building up your savings: Charting a new path doesn’t mean you should stop building savings. Quite the opposite. It can be even more important to establish a routine to fuel a savings account as you begin a new chapter in your life. Doing so will provide flexibility, relief and, in some cases, security should there be any unexpected twists and turns.

These simple steps can help you establish a more secure foundation, whether or not you’re one of the many Americans embarking on a new path in 2022.

*The survey was conducted on YouGov Direct: 1,200 U.S. adults 18+ were surveyed on Nov. 16, 2021, from 2:49 p.m.-4:45 p.m. Eastern time. Data is weighted on age, gender, education level, political affiliation and ethnicity to be nationally representative of adults 18+ in the United States. The margin of error is approximately 2.8% for the overall sample.

2021-12-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Office Depot

If you’re a small business owner, then you’re well aware that the end of the year is an extremely busy time for customers, employees, vendors and of course, yourself. And while there is much to do to keep business going, it’s critical to schedule some extra time to thoroughly review the past 12 months to evaluate performance, review company resources, and plan for what is needed to start the new year on the right foot.

Here are three steps you can take to help your business thrive in 2022.

1. Look back to take stock

An end of year wrap-up review is ideal for all areas of your business. This can help you learn from successes and missteps before moving forward with new year plans.

• Do a goal assessment. For goals that weren’t achieved, ask yourself what you could have done differently. Were the goals overly ambitious or did unexpected events cause inventory delays or staffing issues? Do you need new strategies for 2022? For goals you did meet, it’s important to celebrate and show appreciation to your staff, partners and customers who made it possible. Need ideas for thank-you gifts? Check out gift ideas for everyone on your list available at Office Depot.
• Assess employee engagement. Employee satisfaction and loyalty are key in driving company success and growth. Consider checking in with your employees via a survey or one-on-ones to gauge morale and identify areas of opportunity for the business.

2. Where are you now? What’s working and what isn’t?

How are current processes and programming working for your business? Where do you need to adjust? Do you need to implement a technology upgrade, or invest in better organizational tools? Do you need to declutter certain storage areas or workstations? The end of year is an ideal time to purchase business solutions, as you can deduct business expenses on your 2021 tax return for eligible purchases made by December 31.

Essentials to help your business stay more organized and run smoothly include:

• Upgraded computers and printers
• File folders
• Storage boxes and file cabinets
• Paper shredders
• Cleaning supplies

With efficiency and speed needed to close out the year strong, consider getting last-minute items your business needs fast from Office Depot. The company recently introduced a “20-Minute Pickup Promise,” offering customers the ability to pick up qualifying online and mobile orders in-store or curbside in just 20 minutes or get $20 off their next qualifying purchase.*

Plus, select Print and Copy Services are available for same-day pickup if the order is placed before 2:00 PM. Same-Day Print Services are excluded from 20-minute pickup.

3. Set smart goals and create action plans with the right tools

Plan concrete, achievable goals for your business for 2022, both short-term (monthly or quarterly) and long-term. Can you break larger goals into smaller steps, so you’ll be able to see measurable progress throughout the year? Involve your staff in brainstorming goals for your business. Consider purchasing organizational tools to help stay on track, like calendars and planners.

Even in the midst of busy times, the time you take to review the past year, modify and set goals for the next 12 months can help to open up new opportunities for a successful future.

^*Curbside pickup is available in most stores, subject to state and local regulations. Orders must be placed 1 hour before store closing. If your order is not ready in 20 minutes, you will receive an email, within 48 hours of placing your order, with a coupon for $20 off your next qualifying purchase. Certain exclusions apply. Excludes tax. No cash back. See email for coupon terms and conditions. Office Depot reserves the right to modify or cancel the offer at any time.

2021-12-14T09:29:00

(BPT) – Due to a historic investment announced by Vice President Kamala Harris last month, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) anticipates making an unprecedented number of loan repayment awards this year to medical, dental, and behavioral health professionals working in underserved communities across the country. In light of $800 million in supplemental funding included in the American Rescue Plan, more clinicians than ever before are competitive for up to $100,000 in loan repayment as part of the National Health Service Corps.

In its most recent year, the National Health Service Corps supported nearly 20,000 recipients, a record number of primary health, dental, and behavioral health care providers. The program will continue to build on this increase with its open application cycle for three of its loan repayment programs through February 3, 2022.

“National Health Service Corps loan repayment programs allow us to support clinicians who have committed to providing primary care services to the nation’s most vulnerable populations,” said Bureau of Health Workforce Associate Administrator Dr. Luis Padilla. “We were able to award every eligible applicant in our last application cycle, and we encourage every eligible clinician to apply before this cycle’s deadline.”

Currently, almost 21 million people receive care from National Health Service Corps clinicians serving urban, rural, and tribal areas. More than 66,000 primary care medical, dental, and mental and behavioral health professionals have participated in the program over the last 50 years. Participating clinicians help ensure access to healthcare for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, prevent disease and illness, and care for the nation’s most vulnerable populations while receiving significant assistance with their educational debt.

Eligible disciplines include physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, dentists, behavioral/mental health clinicians, and more. Qualified clinicians may receive up to $100,000 in educational loan repayment, depending on the award.

Providers may apply for one of three National Health Service Corps loan repayment programs:

1) National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program

This two-year commitment program supports clinicians with up to $50,000 to pay off their student loan debt in exchange for service at a National Health Service Corps-approved site.

2) National Health Service Corps Substance Use Disorder Workforce Loan Repayment Program

This three-year commitment supports the recruitment and retention of health professionals with up to $75,000. Providers must be working to combat the nation’s opioid crisis, expand access to evidence-based, medication-assisted treatment, and prevent overdose deaths in underserved areas. Applicants must work at a National Health Service Corps-approved SUD treatment facility.

3) National Health Service Corps Rural Community Loan Repayment Program

This three-year commitment addresses the often-disproportionate need for qualified Substance Use Disorder providers in rural communities and awards up to $100,000 in loan repayment funds. Applicants must work at a rural National Health Service Corps-approved Substance Use Disorder treatment facility.

NHSC-approved sites and treatment facilities must be located in a Health Professional Shortage Area.

To learn more and apply for a National Health Service Corps’ Loan Repayment Program, visit NHSC.HRSA.gov/choose-your-lrp. Like NHSC on Facebook, follow NHSC on LinkedIn and Twitter @NHSCorps, and sign up for HRSA email updates.

2021-12-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – No matter where you live, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the culture of diverse communities, if you know where to look. To show your support for multicultural artisans, performers and businesses, here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Check out diverse artists in your neighborhood — and online

Do an internet search for art galleries in your area that showcase artists of color, then go and take a look at the work these artists are creating. You can also search for art fairs and festivals nearby that showcase multicultural artists and crafters that you can patronize. These kinds of events make for a great family outing, and you can usually find beautiful art, handcrafted gifts and home decor items.

Many websites that sell artisan crafts will also highlight their minority-owned shops. Search the site or contact them to ask where you can find these artists to view their amazing creations.

2. Support arts programs for kids

Supporting local schools as well as extracurricular programs that provide all kids with opportunities to express themselves and explore their own heritage will have a positive impact on the future of art and culture in your community.

You can help by volunteering, donating or simply being there as an advocate — attending events and applauding the efforts of kids and their educators.

3. Notice companies that actively celebrate minority-owned businesses and diverse cultures

Companies large and small are increasingly aware that consumers today want to support causes they believe in, as well as those that encourage artistic and cultural expression from people of color. This awareness is inspiring all kinds of initiatives to encourage the work of artists from diverse backgrounds.

For example, Control™ Prepaid Mastercard from Netspend found an exciting way to promote artistic expressions by partnering with diverse artists who have created unique art and are using the art on their prepaid cards. These artists are selected for not only the outstanding artistic quality of their work, but also their positive contributions to their cultures and communities. You can celebrate diversity in art by choosing a design from one of their available Artist Series card designs — and you’ll have a work of art in your wallet.

For anyone looking for a financial tool that can help you to take control of your money, the Control Card is not only designed with its members’ needs in mind, but also their goals.

You can order an Artist Series card at MyControlCard.com.

4. Buy from minority-owned businesses

More companies than ever before are highlighting entrepreneurs of color, making it easier to find products that are created by multicultural entrepreneurs. Next time you shop, search for minority-owned businesses online, or look for categories like multicultural products from major retailers’ websites.

For example, you can find minority-owned businesses to support by visiting the Control Card website at MyControlCard.com/buy-black/.

5. Champion ethnic restaurants

Another great way to tap into the culture of your own heritage — or others — is to visit local restaurants that introduce you to foods and traditions from myriad cultural backgrounds. Some of these venues also host music performances or art exhibitions that add to the richness of the experience dining there. Supporting minority-owned and ethnic restaurants also helps all of the people in their surrounding communities.

Encouraging and participating in artistic and cultural events in your area, plus buying from minority-owned businesses, shows your support, celebrating these efforts and helping these artists and businesses grow for years to come.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR OPENING A CARD ACCOUNT: To help the federal government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the USA PATRIOT Act requires us to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens a Card Account. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: When you open a Card Account, we will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and your government ID number. We may also ask to see your driver’s license or other identifying information. Card activation and identity verification required before you can use the Card Account. If your identity is partially verified, full use of the Card Account will be restricted, but you may be able to use the Card for in-store purchase transactions. Restrictions include: no ATM withdrawals, international transactions, account-to-account transfers and additional loads. Use of Card Account also subject to fraud prevention restrictions at any time, with or without notice. Residents of Vermont are ineligible to open a Card Account.

The Control™ Prepaid Mastercard is issued by MetaBank^®, National Association, Member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Netspend is a registered agent of MetaBank, N.A. Certain products and services may be licensed under U.S. Patent Nos. 6,000,608 and 6,189,787. Use of the Card Account is subject to activation, ID verification, and funds availability. Transaction fees, terms, and conditions apply to the use and reloading of the Card Account. See the Cardholder Agreement for details.

Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Card may be used everywhere Debit Mastercard is accepted.

© 2021 Netspend Corporation. All rights reserved worldwide. Netspend is the federally registered U.S. service mark of Netspend Corporation. All other trademarks and service marks belong to their owners.

2021-12-06T06:01:00

(BPT) – Financial experts have been talking a lot about “credit invisibles” lately. The term refers to people who do not meet the minimum criteria to generate a credit score. Having a good credit score is important for a variety of reasons, but for many people struggling to even establish a score, this goal can seem unreachable.

Why do some people not have credit scores?

It’s not a simple answer. There are numerous reasons why some people don’t have one or why their credit report doesn’t show up during inquiries. According to a recent report from VantageScore, approximately 37 million Americans are unscoreable when conventional credit score models are used but are scoreable with their system.

Why is that? It’s typically because they either:

• Lack a credit history as a young adult.
• Avoid credit and rely on cash.
• Are an immigrant and lack credit history in the United States.

Not having a credit history can present financial roadblocks now and in the future. Fixing the issue entirely will require a national discussion about financial inclusion. However, there are things consumers and financial institutions can do to help these credit invisibles establish a healthy financial profile.

How can people become credit visible?

Here are a few things people can do to put themselves on the financial map if they don’t have a credit score:

Take out a credit builder loan

These loans tend to be relatively modest, making them easy to take on and pay back for responsible borrowers. Credit builder loans usually have a balance of around $1,000 and can be issued by financial institutions like credit unions.

While borrowers can pay off the loan over a specified period, lenders can report this activity to the credit bureaus. That way, consumers can start building a solid credit history if they make timely payments.

Open a secured credit card

Secured cards work like regular credit cards, as you can use them to make purchases and pay them off later. The difference is that secured cards require a security deposit to open, in which the amount can vary depending on the card. The deposit amount could be the same amount as your line of credit. That being said, there may be additional approval requirements.

Once the card is authorized, the issuer can send account information to the three major bureaus so consumers can get a score.

Working toward solutions for credit invisibles

With the expansion of credit for credit invisibles, financial institutions can help these people build the credit they need to reach certain financial milestones. And with responsible use of credit, these individuals can stand a better chance at getting more favorable terms on future loans.

VantageScore’s state-of-the-art scoring models have scored millions of credit invisibles over the past few years with their updated 3.0 and 4.0 scoring models, including 10.7 million Black and Hispanics and 1.75 million Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders and Native Americans. For more information, you can check out VantageScore’s website today.

2021-11-30T16:37:00

(BPT) – Amidst dramatic shifts in the national workforce and ever-changing job market, those in or entering their careers without formal education face an uphill challenge.

In a recent survey, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that nearly half of the more than 800 occupations they analyze annually require a college degree. Those occupations at the bachelor’s or master’s degree level are now netting graduates about $36,000 more in median annual salary than those at an associate’s level or less — and this trend is likely to continue increasing.

With such a wide wage gap, it’s clear that undergraduate and graduate degrees are profitable investments for employees looking to upskill or change careers and first-year students alike. However, the cost of these degrees and the time needed to complete them can still be a barrier. While taking additional courses in high school or transferring credits from prior collegiate experiences can help, not everyone can take advantage of these opportunities.

Fortunately, innovative universities now offer an alternative: earn both degrees in less time.

Arizona State University is leading the way by creating affordable 4+1 degree programs, allowing students to concurrently complete an undergraduate and graduate degree. The ASU Online 4+1 programs include degrees for in-demand fields such as information technology and health care. Students in any of these online programs are able to fast-track their degrees and accelerate their career potential by saving up to a year of master’s coursework and tuition.

Is an accelerated degree program the next step in your career path? When evaluating your options, consider how much time these programs take to complete, the total cost and how they may affect your career outcomes.

Time

Generally, it takes a minimum of four years to attain a bachelor’s degree and an additional two years to graduate with a master’s. An accelerated program allows learners to shorten the time it takes to attain either of these degrees. ASU Online, for instance, combines undergraduate and graduate coursework during senior year for dual credit, so a student receives both degrees in five years.

This process isn’t exclusive to first-time-in-college students. Transfer students can also benefit from an accelerated degree program. They can complete these degrees even faster by working with their academic counselor to chart a plan for which courses they need to take to be on track with an accelerated program.

What’s more, the pace and structure of online programs allow learners to maintain employment while they get their degree. Earning while learning is especially advantageous to master’s degree students who are less likely to receive grant aid, fellowships or tuition waivers than undergraduates and doctoral students.

Career outcomes

Looking to the future, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects to add the most jobs in 2020-2030 in industries where careers typically require an advanced degree.

While some individuals may have a defined passion and clear career path, others may not know what credentials are necessary to pursue a position in their desired industry. Conducting research on what occupations are growing and what knowledge can help you enter those fields can yield beneficial results.

When considering employment trends for 2020-2030, the bureau projects health care and social assistance will add the most jobs of all industries, with an estimated 3.3 million jobs.

Technological advancements will also increase the long-term demand for computer-related occupations, especially with the rise of teleworking, which has expanded the need for computing infrastructure and IT security.

ASU Online, aiming to make education accessible for students across the country, currently offers more than 30 accelerated 4+1 degree programs. Several programs can lead to careers in these rising industries, nursing, biological sciences, information technology, internet and web development, and global cybersecurity.

No matter the career, the path to attaining necessary knowledge and experience can be rewarding. Research universities that offer the degree or certification program you’re looking for online, and that are specifically designed and have dedicated resources to work with online learners.

To learn about ASU Online’s accelerated and traditional degree programs, visit ASUOnline.asu.edu.

2021-11-29T14:37:00

(BPT) – On November 4, 2021, the Biden administration released a new federal rule identifying COVID-19 as an occupational hazard and mandating COVID-19 vaccination for workers. The mandate would apply to health care workers at facilities that participate in Medicaid or Medicare, federal contractors and federal employees, as well as businesses with more than 100 employees. It does not apply to employees who work remotely, outside, or otherwise don’t report to workplaces where other people work or shop. While it was set to go into effect January 4, 2022, on November 6, 2021, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit issued an order to temporarily stay the mandate in response to a lawsuit filed by opponents on November 5, 2021. The resolution remains forthcoming.

Top-rated and award-winning Washington, D.C.-based federal employment law attorney John P. Mahoney, Esq. has some recognized expert level insights on the legality of COVID-19 vaccine mandates, as well as what he believes the future of this legal battle looks like. Mahoney has devoted his entire nearly 30-year legal practice to representing federal employees, unions, employee associations, contractors and agencies in federal employment law cases, as well as private sector companies and employees in employment law cases in DC and MD. He has garnered the highest level of peer rating of ‘AV Preeminent^®’ from Martindale-Hubbell^® due to his recognized ethics and legal talent, and he has been named in The Wall Street Journal as a “Top-Rated Labor & Employment Lawyer.”

“Most private sector employees are ‘at will,’ meaning their employment can be terminated at any time — for any reason, no reason, even a factually mistaken reason — as long as the real reason is not EEO discrimination or potentially whistleblower retaliation,” said Mahoney. “Even federal government employees, most of whom have a Constitutionally protected property interest in their continued federal employment — which cannot be taken away without due process — can be fired for failure to follow lawful directives by their employers. Given that, all employees in the U.S. need to realize that they can be fired for failing to comply with their employers’ legal COVID-19 vaccine mandates.”

Under the federal rule, health care workers, federal contractors, and federal workers aren’t given the option to test and mask instead of getting vaccinated. In other private sector businesses with 100 or more employees, employees could be given the option to test weekly and would be required to wear a mask in the workplace if unvaccinated. For those employees, this additional option further challenges the likelihood of legal action success against the mandate.

“Companies, including health care settings, have a legal obligation to keep their workers and customers/patients safe; thus, they can generally require vaccines in the context of setting and enforcing terms and conditions of employment,” said Mahoney. “However, some employers may have to provide reasonable accommodations to those with health or religious reasons for not being vaccinated. That said, accommodations that jeopardize the health and safety of the employee or others in the workplace, such as co-workers or customers, may be deemed an unreasonable accommodation or an undue burden on the employers’ operations, which may thus legally be denied.”

Looking at other legal challenges to COVID-19 vaccine mandates, for the most part, the mandates have stood due to the at-will nature of employment in most areas. Whether state or local laws can prohibit vaccine mandates is still uncertain, though the federal regulation is intended to preempt state and local laws.

Most employers are finding that carrot-and-stick approaches are largely effective for getting employees vaccinated. While employee absences due to COVID-19-related issues have raised legal issues for employers, under the regulations, employers must provide paid time off for their staff to get a shot and recover from any side effects of the vaccines.

Recently, the United Stated Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit has been chosen by lottery to decide all challenges to the Administration’s COVID mandates, which could ultimately be appealed to the Supreme Court of the United States, the Bar of which Court Attorney Mahoney is a member.

“All employees, including federal employees, should do the right thing for the country, their neighbors, and public health. Protect their own job security by voluntarily getting fully COVID-19 vaccinated immediately, if possible,” urged Mahoney.