As we previously alerted last week, Oregon Governor Brown signed an Executive Order that will lift all remaining COVID-19 health and safety restrictions by June 30th, regardless of the current vaccination rate. This includes all face mask requirements, capacity restrictions and physical distancing requirements. Some restrictions continue to be in place per federal law such as in airports, healthcare facilities and in public transportation.
Oregon OSHA has stated that they will also discontinue enforcement of its permanent rule as it relates to face mask and physical distancing requirements by June 30th or when OHA announces the state has reached the 70% vaccination threshold, whichever comes first. OSHA is expected to issue a temporary rule in order to accomplish this. All other provisions of OSHA’s permanent rule will remain in place until OSHA takes additional steps to repeal all or parts of the rule.
Employers should keep in mind that they can have more stringent restrictions. For example, an employer may choose to continue face mask and physical distancing requirements for employees and visitors and continue to require proof of vaccination status.
Cascade will continue to monitor this and we will keep you updated once more is known. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!