Several state lawmakers have joined calls from labor groups for Gov. Gavin Newsom to follow through on his commitment to prioritize farmworkers for COVID-19 vaccines.
“It is unacceptable that so many farmworkers are struggling to access and receive the COVID-19 vaccine, despite being rightfully prioritized in Tier 1 of Phase 1B of the state’s vaccination plan,” said Assemblymember Robert Rivas of Hollister.
In a letter to Newsom, Rivas and Asm. Eduardo Garcia of Coachella shared concerns that such prioritization “will be illusory and ineffective without immediate, targeted statewide action.” They argued that seniors are now outcompeting farmworkers for doses in many counties.
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To better reach this vulnerable population, Rivas and Garcia urged the administration to work directly with growers and community organizations and offer vaccinations at work sites and pharmacies.
