City, Police Union Come To Agreement Over COVID-19 Vaccinations

MILWAUKEE, WI — After union-represented public safety workers were exempt from the city's order to vaccinate all city workers against COVID-19, Milwaukee and one police union have come to an agreement.

The Milwaukee Police Supervisors Organization will require its members to get vaccinated by Nov. 30, the city said in a statement. Members who aren't vaccinated by then will have to wear a mask while on duty except when eating or drinking at a safe distance.

If members who aren't vaccinated are found without a face covering while on duty, they can face penalties, including suspensions and discharge for repeat violations, according to city records.

The city will provide vaccinations to police union members, the city said. Vaccination is mandatory whether or not members were previously infected with the virus.

If members are vaccinated prior to the agreement, they can get two hours of administrative leave, the city said. Members can also apply for religious or medical exemption.

The city and union representatives will meet every month to discuss the status of the pandemic, according to city records. The agreement can last until 2022, unless both parties agree to extend it or end it.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett ordered all city employees to be vaccinated for coronavirus Aug. 24. “I appreciate the thoughtfulness the [Milwaukee Police Supervisors Organization] has brought to our discussions on this matter," he said in a statement.

See Also: Milwaukee City Employees Required To Get Vaccinated: Mayor