AR HB1977

Employers requiring COVID-19 vaccination must provide a specific exemption process allowing employees to submit negative test results (weekly antigen or molecular tests) or proof of immunity (twice yearly) instead of vaccination.

Testing costs shall be covered through state or federal COVID-19 relief funds, including American Rescue Plan Act funds, if health insurance does not provide coverage; employees cover costs only if federal/state funding is unavailable.

Employees complying with the exemption process cannot be terminated for COVID-19 vaccination mandates, and those terminated for employer violations may be eligible for unemployment benefits.

The Department of Finance and Administration must establish rules for distributing relief funds within 30 days and report monthly to the Legislative Council on fund disbursement.

This section expires July 31, 2023, unless extended by the General Assembly; the act became effective October 13, 2021, without the Governor's signature.