January 13, 2022, the Supreme Court struck down the federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate in a 6-3 vote. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandate would have required businesses with at least 100 employees to be fully vaccinated or submit a COVID-19 test weekly in order to enter the workplace. 

“Although Congress has indisputably given OSHA the power to regulate occupational dangers, it has not given that agency the power to regulate public health more broadly,” the Supreme Court wrote.

The ruling came three days after the order took effect. The Biden administration estimated the mandate would apply to roughly 100 million Americans. 

Vaccines are still required for Health Care workers at federal facilities. Private companies and local laws are also still allowed to institute their own vaccination requirements for their employees. 

Despite the decision, President Biden still encourages all Americans to receive the vaccinations and encourages others to do so.

“The Court has ruled that my administration cannot use the authority granted to it by Congress to require this measure, but that does not stop me from using my voice as President to advocate for employers to do the right thing to protect Americans’ health and economy,” said Biden.