Frequently Asked Questions

1) Will new WSU employees be required to verify COVID-19 Vaccination?

Once the State of Emergency is lifted, most new* WSU employees will not be required to verify their COVID-19 vaccination status.

*Employees in certain health care-related positions may still be required to provide vaccination verification.

2) I have extended an offer to an employee who will start the week of October 24, 2022, will they be required to verify their COVID-19 vaccination status?

Yes, any employee, whose hire is effective on or before the State of Emergency is lifted, will be required to verify their COVID-19 vaccination status or a medical/religious exemption and accommodation must be established prior to the first day of work, regardless of work location. 

3) Does this apply to non-employees? Volunteers and Contractors?

Yes, once the State of Emergency is lifted, Volunteers and Contractors will no longer be required to verify their COVID-19 vaccination status.

4) My job is in health care. How do I find out if my position will still require verification of COVID-19 vaccination?

Certain health care related positions may require the verification of COVID-19 and other vaccinations, consult with your supervisor or manager as to what is required for your position.

5) With the end of the emergency orders and state of emergency in Washington State, is the cost of the COVID-19 vaccine still covered by my WSU health benefits?

The WSU benefit plans offered to eligible employees and their families cover vaccinations and immunizations listed on the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization schedule, which includes COVID-19 vaccinations.

Vaccinations are considered preventative services and normally fully covered, and not subject to deductibles if you see a covered provider. 

Specific questions should be directed to your medical plan.

6) What happens to my medical accommodation due to my high-risk status?

See the Disability Services HELSA High-Risk Employee – Accommodations website for information on the continued provisions of the Health Emergency Labor Standards Act (HELSA).

7) Will I or my manager still be able to access my COVID-19 vaccination information in Workday?

Yes.  Although the business process will be inactive once the State of Emergency is lifted, both workers and managers will be able to access previous vaccination information in Workday.  The data will remain in the system for historical tracking and reporting purposes.

8) Where can I find information about the verification requirement for students?

WSU students: Cougar Health Services

9) Where can I find additional information?

• Visit Environmental Health & Safety for the most-up-to date information on the university’s COVID-19 conditions.
• For applicant or employee process questions contact HRS.