Citigroup confirms it will begin firing unvaccinated staff this month

Major bank Citigroup this week confirmed that it would soon begin firing employees who are not vaccinated against COVID-19, setting itself up to fulfill an earlier pledge on the matter from last year.

A memo sent to employees this week reminded them that they must now be “fully vaccinated as a condition of employment.” That rule was first laid down in October. 

Individuals who do not comply with the mandate will be put on unpaid leave, culminating with termination on Jan. 31 if they continue to not comply. 

The company has justified the rule due to its status as a federal contractor. President Joe Biden has made it mandatory for federal contractors to be vaccinated, though that rule, like several others issued by the Biden administration, is currently in doubt as it works its way through the courts.