Thank Gov. Jay Inslee for state ferry staffing shortages.
Unlike Gov. Kate Brown of Oregon, our governor is not allowing state workers who did not get the COVID-19 vaccine back to work.
This is a huge part of the shortage of workers, along with those who took early retirement.
On Aug. 6, 2021 Rochelle Walensky, CDC director, stated vaccines do not prevent the spread or getting COVID-19; they reduce severe illness.
How is Inslee “following the science?”
Is he being punitive to those who did not comply?
The ferry system is in trouble, and yes, it was prior to COVID-19.
The same jobs outside the system for engine crew can pay more than double.
Even with new hires coming into the engine room as oilers, it will take 10 years for them to becomes assistants, since they have to have hours per Coast Guard regulations.
Then it will take another three-to-four years to become a chief engineer.
Thanks Jay Inslee for our reduced service and that my family is leaving the state because you took their jobs away.
Renee Rose Grall
Port Angeles