SANTA FE – In response to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's Executive Order mandating COVID vaccinations or regular testing for state employees, Senate Republican Leader, Senator Greg Baca (District 29-Bernalillo and Valencia), and Senate Republican Whip, Senator Craig Brandt (District 40-Sandoval), today released the following statement:

"There is no question that the Governor's heavy-handed, conflicting policies over the past 16 months have contributed to the public angst and cynicism regarding vaccinations. The trust that was lost must now be earned and her continued threats and public shaming will not work."

"We support our state employees' rights to make a personal decision about what is injected in their bodies while also supporting a safe and healthy working environment. Both are possible and we urge our state agencies to work with their employees on reasonable arrangements so everyone can get back to serving the public."