More than 100 Washington State Patrol employees were fired after refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
As previously reported by Human Events News, Monday was the deadline for Washington employees to provide proof of vaccination or risk losing their jobs. The mandate, which Gov. Jay Inslee announced in August, requires most state and healthcare workers to get vaccinated. Employees may apply for a medical or religious exemption, but there is no testing option.
While a majority of Washington’s employees are vaccinated, the effects of those resisting vaccination are anticipated to spread through industries including public safety, transportation and education.
“We will miss every one of them,” WSP Chief John R. Batiste said in a statement, per Fox News. “I extended a hardy thanks to those who are leaving the agency. I truly wish that you were staying with us. You have my utmost appreciation for the hard and successful work that you have provided during your valued WSP Careers. You will forever have our respect for your courage and your commitment in all you have done on behalf of the agency.”
In total, 53 civilians and 74 commissioned officers - including 67 troopers, six sergeants and one captain - were fired from their positions.
“As for more than 2,000 individuals who elected to stay with our agency, I am forever thankful,” Batiste said. “We must now turn our attention to making sure we deploy our resources in a manner that continues to keep our roadways safe and meets the other core law enforcement responsibilities this agency has met with honor for over 100 years.”
