Washington Membership Update – Covid Vaccination Mandate:

We wanted to alert the membership regarding Governor Inslee’s recent decision to mandate vaccinations by October 18^th for state employees.  This mandate also extends to workers on all state public works projects.  First, we are discouraged that the Governor chose not to discuss this decision with us prior to his announcement as it affects a great deal of our members in both Stationary and Hoisting and Portable operations.  Second, as an affiliate with the Washington State Labor Council, we are working with them to understand the collective labor position on this matter.  Third, as a member of the Governor’s Construction Covid Roundtable, we are working with the Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council to evaluate our options and the appropriate next steps moving forward under this new mandate.  Finally, we have hesitated to make any announcement or take an official position as we explore our options, including: analyzing the legal aspects and ramifications of the decision; considering our possible bargaining position(s); and understanding our recourse, if any, for situations where our members refuse or are unable to receive the vaccination. 

All this to say we are working on it and we will let you know if and when we have any further guidance or position on this matter.

In Solidarity,

Daren Konopaski
Business Manager