Topline
President Joe Biden called on Monday for the private sector to mandate coronavirus vaccinations for their workers after the Food and Drug Administration gave full approval for the Pfizer BioNTech shot. This development is a turning point for vaccine-hesitant Americans.
The US President Joe Biden will deliver remarks at the White House on August 23, 2021 about the Covid-19 response, and the vaccination... [+] program. - Monday's approval by the US Food and Drug Administration of the Pfizer BioNTech Covid vaccine was a major milestone in the nation's response to the Delta virus. However, health officials have encountered a blockage due to a lack of vaccination receptive people. (Photo taken by JIM WALTSON / AFP). (Photo taken by JIM WALTSON/AFP via Getty Images). AFP via Getty Images
The Key Facts
Biden stated that the Pfizer vaccine approval, which was previously authorized for emergency use only, is the gold standard. He advised Americans not waiting for the full approval to get their shot today. Biden suggested that business leaders must make vaccine requirements more accessible to millions of people. He cited the vaccine-or test mandate he established for federal workers last month, as an example. Biden stated that he is calling on all business leaders to mandate the vaccines and extend it to state, local, and non-profit leaders who have not already required them. These comments were made as several government agencies, including the Pentagon, the New York City Department of Education and others, implement new vaccine mandates following the FDA's decision. Many major companies, including Google, Amazon, and the New York Times, have already required vaccines. However, some others, such as United Airlines, made their mandates contingent upon FDA approval.
Important Background
In recent months, the Biden administration has stood firm in support of vaccine mandates and has clashed with GOP governors who have put restrictions on them. According to a White House report, Biden met earlier this month with leaders from the health, business and university sectors and encouraged them to speak to their peers in this important step.
Important Quote
Biden stated that the moment you've been waiting for has arrived. He addressed hesitant Americans who waited for FDA approval and said, "It's time to get your vaccine. Get it now." It's now.
