The AC Transit Board of Directors voted to implement a mandatory vaccination policy for employees with no alternative testing option, according to a March 16 press release.

Employees, board officers and board directors were mandated to receive one of three FDA-approved vaccines starting Jan. 12, which allows 60 days to comply, according to the press release. Effective March 17, the press release notes that employees who fail to comply with the mandate will receive notices of intent to terminate as soon as March 18.

The press release also noted that while AC Transit is taking “advanced measures” to mitigate service cancellations, riders may still experience delays or temporary suspension of low-use bus lines due to possible worker shortages as a result of the mandate. AC Transit will funnel resources to prioritize high-demand bus lines as well as lines that are vital for under-resourced communities, according to the press release.

“Our board of directors wants to ensure a healthier workforce and build a safer workplace, and through its vote, believes the COVID-19 vaccines provide our transit district a critical path forward,” said AC Transit general manager Michael Hursh.