Maryland Paying State Workers To Get COVID Vaccine, Gov. Hogan Encourages Private Businesses To Do The Same

ANNAPOLIS, Md -- Maryland will give $100 to any state employee who gets the Covid vaccine and agrees to any booster shots recommended by the CDC over the next 18 months.

The governor's office said the deal is retroactive, and those who already received the shots just need to provide proof to their Human Resources office.

"Incentives like this are another way to reinforce the importance of getting vaccinated, and we strongly encourage businesses across the state to consider offering incentives to their workers as well," Governor Larry Hogan said in a prepared statement.

Those who refuse further booster shots will be required to repay the $100.

The move comes as Maryland's hospitalizations and new infections are trending downward, and the state is working to convince reluctant people to get the vaccinated.

"I'm a musician. I can't work from home," Ricky Wise told WJZ Investigator Mike Hellgren after getting vaccinated Monday. "I think it was a no brainer once I thought that through."

The M&T Bank Stadium mass vaccination site is not as packed as in weeks past, and there are concerns that the pace of vaccinations is slowing statewide. Blocks of appointments here are being reserved for university students and staff through Saturday from 8am to 4pm.

James Courtney noted the stark difference in the number of people compared to three weeks prior when he received his first Pfizer shot. He encouraged people to get vaccinated.

"This is a free shot at getting immunity that you don't have to get sick to get. It's worth it to me," Courtney said.

Starting Wednesday, Walgreen's is offering same-day vaccine appointments at all stores and walk-in vaccinations at some stores.

Giant Food said walk-in vaccinations are now available at all 152 of the chain's pharmacies, making it easier to get the shot. Giant is still taking appointments.

Baltimore City reported cases, positivity and deaths dropped compared to four weeks ago. Covid-related deaths are down 21% compared to one month ago in the city.

The governor's office said 62% of Marylanders 18 and older have now received one dose of vaccine.