WA announces vaccine mandate for state workers, health care

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington state workers or those working in private medical or long-term care jobs will be required to show proof of vaccination by Oct. 18 or will lose their jobs.

Weekly testing will not be an option for those who want to avoid vaccination and maintain their employment, and the only opt-out of the requirement is either a medical or religious exemption.

The order applies to employees of the 24 state agencies that are part of the governor’s executive Cabinet.

Employees in the private sector who are covered under the order include those who work in health care and long-term care and other congregate settings.