Starbucks Throws Out COVID-19 Vaccination And Booster Requirement For Employees After U.S. Supreme Court Ruling

Starbucks has thrown out its plan to require COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots from its employees.

Back on January 4, Starbucks released a letter to its staff suggesting workers get vaccinated for the Coronavirus. The company’s recommendation was motivated by guidance from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, CNN Business reports. If a worker didn’t get vaccinated by the February deadline, they would have to be tested weekly.

However, the U.S. Supreme Court blocked Joe Biden’s vaccination and testing requirement for large businesses last week, and now Starbucks has shut down its plans for the requirement as well. On Tuesday, the coffee company giant sent a message to its staff, saying it would comply with the ruling.

“We respect the Court’s ruling and will comply,” said Chief Operating Officer and Group President for North America at Starbucks, John Culver. While the requirement may not be happening anymore, Culver still encouraged workers to get vaxxed and boosted. So far, 90 percent of Starbucks workers have been vaccinated and boosted, according to Culver. He added that the company would continue to follow local requirements and safety measures.