Update On Biden Administration's Vaccine Mandate

Words: Jeff Buczkiewicz

UPDATE 11/23/2021: We are waiting on a ruling from the Sixth Circuit Court. In the event they decide to agree with the Fifth Circuit and continue to stay the rule, we will keep monitoring the situation. Should the Sixth Circuit Court decide to enforce the rule, the MCAA will be providing Vaccination and Regular Testing Policies for our members.

A three-judge panel upheld the stay of the Vaccination Mandate issued by OSHA a week ago.  The three-judge panel cited irreparable harm if it were not held up and the rule was eventually overturned. The panel also felt the rule had a good chance of being overruled as there were concerns about the administration doing a 180 from its previous determination on both vaccines and on why an ETS was not necessary without giving a detailed explanation for the flip flop.  

In addition, the panel was concerned about the constitutionality authority under the Commerce Clause and threatens states’ power under the 10th amendment. The court further notes that the ETS is noneconomic activity, which means it falls within the States’ powers. They also noted they did not feel OSHA had the authority to create such a mandate. Likely the rule will be appealed to a full appellate court. If that court concurs, it will likely be headed for the Supreme Court. 

Stay tuned for additional updates.  

Finding the Right PPE for Your Work
January 2026

When it comes to PPE, one thing’s for sure: safety isn’t one size fits all. The work you’re doing, where you’re doing it, and even what time of year it is, can all make a big difference in what gear actually works. Price, comfort, and job performance all

Back Injuries: The Real Cost and How to Prevent Them
January 2026

The mention of back injuries makes mason contractors cringe, and for good reason. Masons lift heavy objects every day, all day long. When a person sustains a back injury, it is serious. It affects every part of their life, from their ability to perform wo

Detailing for Durability: The 2026 Guide to High-Performance Stone Veneer Transitions
January 2026

Some of the most expensive failures involving manufactured stone veneer installations don’t come from the stone at all, but rather from the material transitions and flashing around it. Transitions are weak points in the overall cladding where water can fi

How TMC Is Reaching the Next Generation of Masons
January 2026

Advocacy, outreach, and education have never been more important to the future of Texas masonry. As the state continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled trades. Industry leaders, schools, and organizations are working together to make sure the next