As
you know, new immunization requirements were scheduled to be announced by CTS
on June 1st with a timeline for implementation in July. When we were originally
informed by the state that interpreters would be required to provide
immunization records and proof of TB screening in order to continue working at
medical appointments after July 15th, we verified the list of requirements and
sent it to our members so we could all be prepared!
We have now learned that
due to bureaucratic delays on the part of the state, there is currently no
specific timeline in place. The new process will not be announced in June,
and immunizations will
not be required in mid-July to work medical appointments.
While the state is unable to produce specific dates, we understand that their current goal is to implement
immunizations in August of this year.
During the entire process of developing the immunization policy our Union advocated
for a streamlined standardized system, so that interpreters and their health
care providers could efficiently comply. We also advocated for a clear timeline
so that our members could be prepared.
The state did not notify
our Union when it realized it would be unable to meet the timelines it had
provided for us. In fact, the state didn't even notify our
Union at all - but they did share
the information about a 'possible' August implementation with third party stakeholders
in our profession! We
immediately contacted the state and were informed that the June/July timeline
was no longer in place.
Even though the implementation will be later than originally anticipated, it's
still on the way. The
list of immunizations and the format in which they must be reported is still valid. We urge you to go forward with
obtaining your immunization records, and updating your TB screening
per the instructions provided by the state.
Our Union is a strong
network, and we were able to obtain this vital information and communicate it to each
other, despite the state's
monumental failure to relay important details in this case. It is clear we must remain united and
vigilant to protect our livelihoods and our profession!
In
solidarity,
Leroy Mould,
President Tami Lentz,
Vice President
Interpreters United, Local 1671 WFSE/AFSCME Council 28