Starbucks to require COVID-19 vaccine or weekly test for U.S. workforce
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Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) says it will require its U.S. employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by February 9 or submit to regular testing, making it one of the first large U.S. restaurant chains to outline an approach to complying with potential federal vaccination mandates for large employers.

After previously allowing baristas to report their vaccination status on a voluntary basis, Starbucks now says its 228K U.S. workers must disclose their vaccination status by January 10.
"My responsibility, and that of every leader, is to do whatever we can to help keep you safe and create the safest work environment possible," COO John Culver says.
Starbucks told its stores last week that it is experiencing rising instances of COVID-19 cases and self-isolation among its workforce, and says it will increase referral bonuses paid to baristas for recommending workers to $200 from $50.
A federal appeals court recently reinstated the Biden administration's mandate requiring businesses with 100 or more employees to ensure that workers are vaccinated or tested weekly.