SC City to Provide Hazard Pay and a Bonus for COVID Vaccination

The City of Columbia, South Carolina has announced a new hazard pay and bonus program for city workers. The plan, which has been approved by the city council will provide firefighters, police officers, public works, and other “front-line workers” with a $2,500 one-time stipend for working through the pandemic. Other city workers will receive a $1,250 one-time stipend. Additionally, city workers that have received the COVID-19 vaccine will receive a a one-time $500 stipend if they are vaccinated prior to November 1. City officials plan on making vaccinations mandatory for all city workers after November.

According to city officials, funding for the payouts will come from funds received by the city through the American Rescue Plan signed this past March by President Biden. City Manager, Teresa Wilson and Mayor Steve Benjamin are hoping that the combination of hazard pay and the vaccination bonus will incentivize city employees to receive the vaccination. City officials believe about 55% of its current workforce (approx. 2,300) have already been fully vaccinated.

Click here for more on the story, from The State newspaper.

Also, here is more on hazardous duty pay and the FLSA.

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