Union: "dozens" of Massachusetts state troopers have resigned over vaccine mandate

Massachusetts has seen "dozens" of state troopers submit resignations following a vaccine mandate for state employees, State Police Association President Michael Cherven wrote in a statement Monday.

The big picture: Of those who resigned, some plan to return to work in other departments that offer "reasonable alternatives" such as mask-wearing requirements and regular testing, Cherven wrote. The union represents some 1,800 officers.

• He added that the strict mandate would further exacerbate staffing shortages.
• About 20% of State Police employees remain unvaccinated, per CBS Boston.

State employees are required to get the shot by Oct. 17 or risk losing their jobs.

• Exemptions to the mandate are available for those with medical or religious reasons.

Driving the news: Earlier this week, the union filed a lawsuit to delay the mandate, which a federal judge rejected.