On September 9th, CPFU, along with the other SEBAC locals, met with representatives from the Lamont Administration to discuss the details and bargain the impacts of recent Executive Orders concerning mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations of state employees who do not qualify for medical or religious exemptions. For employees not working in state hospitals or long-term care facilities, that mandate includes the ability to refuse the vaccine as long as the employee submits to weekly COVID testing.

The bargaining session involved leaders representing bargaining units in the executive branch, including classified employees in higher education, as well as leaders representing Judicial and Criminal Justice employees who are subject to similar policies. Employer representatives from each of these units were also present. You can review SEBAC’s initial statement that outlines the relevant executive orders in detail HERE. (Note that Executive Order 13B, which is discussed in that outline, has since been replaced with Executive 13F). The text to current EOs can also be found HERE for 13D, and HERE for 13F.

During this meeting, leaders and staff presented their positions on key items of concern from our members. At this time, we are awaiting a response from the Administration on these matters. As soon as we hear back from them, we will be sure to update the membership on the outcome as time is clearly of the essence.