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Sep 21, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Massachusetts State Police union sues over governor's vaccine mandate

headshot
Photo of Charlie Baker in a suit speaking from a podium with a red wall and the American flag behind him

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker. Photo: Amanda Sabga/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images

The Massachusetts State Police union has filed a lawsuit to delay Gov. Charlie Baker's (R) coronavirus vaccine mandate, which requires state employees to get the shot by Oct. 17 or face termination.

Why it matters: The union represents 1,800 members and is asking a judge to postpone the vaccination requirement so it has time to bargain, the Boston Globe notes. Troopers would undergo "irreparable harm" otherwise, the lawsuit said.

  • Baker's order, issued Aug. 19, allows for personal, medical or religious exemptions. Failure to comply could result in discipline.

The union's demands include:

  • Allowing troopers who choose not to get the vaccine to wear masks and submit to weekly testing.
  • Offering "presumptive protection" to members who are forced to retire or die due to the vaccination or COVID-19. This would automatically make their case a "line-of-duty injury" with additional benefits.

What to watch: A hearing is set for Wednesday, according to the Globe.

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