Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker’s administration confirmed its decision to rehire about 50 former state employees who were fired for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine.

In August, Baker announced the vaccine mandate in an executive order that covered over 41,000 Executive Department employees. Most complied or were granted an exemption – primarily for medical reasons, however, as the administration only gave the green light to about 6 percent of religious exemption applications, according to WCVB.

Baker said the policy was successful in boosting the vaccination rate among the state workforce and that the process for dealing with those who sought exemptions has been ongoing. Earlier this month, the state sent letters offering some of the ousted employees a chance to return.

"There are a small number of people who the commonwealth wants to talk to because we think we might have an alternative for them," Baker said.

A further statement from a spokesperson said they do not expect to make this offer again.