Union not involved in protests over vaccine mandates

BELLINGHAM, Wash. – The union that represents health care workers in Bellingham says it has not organized anti-vaccine protests here or anywhere else.

SEIU 1199NW says in a statement that it supports science-based vaccine requirements for front line health care workers, with exemptions for medical and religious reasons.

It also tells its members that taking part in an action that could be taken as a strike or picket could lead to a workers’ termination.

The union does state that it expects to be able to bargain with employers over what it calls a change of working conditions.

Protests against vaccine mandates by PeaceHealth and Governor Inslee outside Bellingham’s hospital last week were organized by independent groups not affiliated with the union or hospital.