Seattle’s new COVID vaccine mandate for city employees took effect Monday and sparked a protest.
A few Seattle City Light workers gathered with a larger number of supporters outside a facility in SODO.
A few workers said they were asked to turn in their badges because they are not vaccinated.
City officials say they are working through the process of exemptions and accommodations.
“They are not saying I am fired, to be clear, but what they are saying is to no longer have contact with anybody here,” said Jeremy Rowan, a City Light employee for nearly 20 years.
Eighty-four City Light workers requested a medical or religious exemption, according to the mayor’s office.
1,573, or 93% of City Light workers are vaccinated, and utility officials say they are planning for any possible short-term staffing issues.