National Hockey League (NHL) teams have the option to suspend and fine their players if they are not vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the Bettman Circuit in its protocol for the 2022-2023 season.
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The NHL is asking clubs to continue to follow national health officials’ recommendations and intends to remain cautious for next season. The new protocol was issued in the context of the high vaccination rate and the latest developments, but also the meteoric increase in cases from December 2021 to February 2022.
The league encourages players to get vaccinated and stay up to date with their vaccines. Athletes who have not received a dose could be suspended by their team if they are unable to participate in club activities. So you should lose the equivalent of a day’s salary for every day you’re absent.
These measures should not be required where a player’s vaccination status is compromised by medical reasons or religious beliefs, the Bettman Circuit added.
All positive cases of COVID-19 should be reported to the public or the media, it was decided. Members of organizations must continue to self-isolate if they have symptoms and quarantine for at least five days if infected. If symptoms disturb the respiratory system, they must undergo a heart test.
Like last year, failure to follow protocol can result in penalties that can include game abandonment, fines and expense refunds, or loss of draft picks.
Clubs must also tell the league if they intend to impose increased health and safety measures.