The company is not yet mandating vaccines
Automaker Honda has joined the growing list of companies choosing to incentivise COVID-19 vaccinations in a bid to increase jab coverage among employees. The automobile manufacturer confirmed to WBNS-TV that workers who receive the jabs are entitled to a $400 cash bonus. If they choose not to claim their cash incentive, the company will donate $600 to non-profit organisation Feeding America on their behalf.
The company has not announced any vaccine mandates to employees as of yet, but they’re strongly encouraging all workers to be vaccinated. So far, the company is utilising onsite COVID tests, temperature checks, face coverings, social distancing, and remote work to keep the virus away from the workplace.
"We are strongly encouraging our associates to receive their full vaccinations to stop the spread of COVID-19," spokesperson Chris Abbruzzese told 10TV.
Read more: Vaccination incentives shouldn't be 'coercive'
Back in late April, the automobile manufacturer launched onsite vaccination clinics in its operations in Alabama, California, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, and Texas. The centres were launched in partnership with local healthcare providers as well as the government.
"We are encouraging Honda associates to get vaccinated to help stop the spread of the virus within our communities. We are pleased to provide these associate clinics as the latest step in Honda's efforts to help defeat COVID-19, but none of this would be possible without the strong working relationships we have with our government and healthcare providers," said Rick Schostek, executive vice president, American Honda Motor Co Inc, in a media release.
Honda's recent cash grant to vaccinated staff follows a growing list of companies across the world that incentivises the jabs. This includes US retail chain Dollar General, semiconductor company Intel, and Insurer Anthem.
