Governor Inslee's Vaccine Booster Directive

On July 1, 2022, Governor Inslee announced that the state will be requiring employees to have recommended boosters consistent with CDC recommendations.  This change is intended to take effect on July 1, 2023 for represented staff.  Non-represented staff and staff who are exempt from Union membership will be required to be fully vaccinated, including recommended boosters, in the Fall of 2022.   
 
The Governor's directive impacts all of our General Government bargaining units with the exception of the Department of Natural Resources.  The Governor is encouraging other state agencies (for example, DNR who has a separately elected official) as well as Higher Education institutes to adopt the same policy.  
 
WPEA is currently bargaining for the 2023-2025 collective bargaining agreement.  We expect to receive proposals at all of our state tables to incorporate this policy into the contract.  As bargaining progresses, we will know more about what this change is and any impacts to membership.