Deal Gives Some Unvaxed NYC School Staff Health Insurance In Exit

NEW YORK CITY — A deal struck between a prominent union and education officials gives some unvaccinated New York City school workers the choice to resign and keep their health insurance.

District 37 officials announced the deal with Department of Education leaders Monday afternoon. The deal gives the workers the option to resign or take a leave of absence.

Those who resign can keep their health insurance coverage until Sept. 22, 2022, officials said. Workers who take leave of absence because they're unvaccinated against the coronavirus will go without pay, but keep their insurance as long as Sept. 5, 2022.

“This fight has always been about the right of individuals to make their own medical decisions without fear of retribution in the workplace,” said Henry Garrido, executive director of District Council 37, in a statement. “Very few of our members remain unvaccinated, but for those who do, we do not believe their jobs should be on the line. This deal strikes the balance between public safety and fairness.”

About 93 percent of 20,000 District 37 members in schools received at least one dose of coronavirus vaccine, officials said. That means about 1,400 remain unvaccinated.

The city's vaccine mandate for school workers took full effect Monday after a long series of court battles between city and union leaders.

Mayor Bill de Blasio and education officials said roughly 95 percent of all school staff are vaccinated — and they were able to cover any absences.