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Kentucky Chamber Warns Biden Vaccine Mandate Sets 'Dangerous Precedent'

AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce says President Joe Biden’s recent vaccination mandates set a “dangerous precedent” against employers’ rights. 

In a statement, Chamber President Ashli Watts said the mandates – which require COVID-19 vaccinations or weekly testing of workers for all businesses with more than 100 employees – leave “many questions” for employers.

While Watts said the chamber believes vaccination in the best way to keep Kentucky businesses open, it will also be asking members for feedback about the sweeping rules out of Washington. The goal, she said, is to ensure the rule creates as little burden for employers as possible.

The mandates, estimated to affect roughly two-thirds of the American workforce, are expected to trigger a wave of legal challenges from states and private employers.

The White House coronavirus response coordinator has said businesses that refuse to follow the new rules could face “significant” fines.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.