Coronavirus: UAW, Ford, GM, Stellantis reinstating mask requirement for workers at all sites

DETROIT — Detroit’s Big Three automakers and the United Auto Workers confirmed Tuesday that COVID-19 vaccinations will not be required for workers, but mask requirements inside all U.S. plants, offices and warehouses will resume Wednesday.

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In a joint statement with the union, General Motors, Ford Motor Co. and Stellantis N.V. said that the measure is in direct response to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s guidance issued Friday urging even fully vaccinated people to wear masks in certain indoor settings.

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Nissan Motor Co. also said Tuesday it was reinstating its mask requirements for all U.S. employees, Reuters reported.

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Meanwhile, COVID-19 vaccinations remain voluntary among employees, but the union and automakers are strongly encouraging workers to secure their jabs, the outlet reported.

“We are urging all UAW members and their families to get vaccinated. The science is telling us very clearly that the only way to get back to normal is to reach a heightened level of immunity,” UAW President Ray Curry told union members in a Tuesday letter, acknowledging that some “religious and health reasons” have dissuaded some employees from seeking vaccination to date.

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