Senator Gallivan Urges Congressional Leaders to Advocate for Mandate Alternative for Employees

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is calling on members of the Western New York Congressional delegation to urge the federal government to allow for an alternative to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for employees at Moog Inc. in Elma.  The local manufacturer, which does business with the federal government, has told workers they have until December 8 to get the vaccine as a condition of employment.

In a letter to U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and Representatives Chris Jacobs and Brian Higgins, Gallivan raises concern about the impact the vaccine mandate may have on staffing at the Elma-based company and the financial well-being of employees.

“I fully support the vaccine and encourage individuals to get it, but I do not support vaccine mandates,” Senator Gallivan said.  “I would like to see the federal government provide an alternative to those who do not want the shot, such as routine testing.  Forcing workers to get the vaccine as a condition of employment could jeopardize operations at Moog and have a negative impact on the local economy.”

Similarly, Senator Gallivan has urged Governor Hochul to modify New York’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers.  Some health care providers have raised concern that the mandate will result in more resignations and layoffs among health care workers, resulting in staffing shortages at hospitals and nursing homes.

                                                                                                                                                                                                        -30-