New Mexico corrections officer sues over vaccination mandate

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A corrections officer is suing a New Mexico county over a requirement that first responders and other Doña Ana County employees be vaccinated.

Isaac Legaretta says in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court that forcing employees to take vaccines that aren’t yet fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration violates federal law.

Legaretta is facing termination for declining a vaccination.

His attorney is seeking an injunction to keep the county from firing or disciplining the officer before a ruling is issued.

County officials are defending the policy, saying it’s aimed at ensuring a safe workplace and protecting inmates.