September 26, 2024 — Thousands of state workers in Washington are voting this week on a proposed two-year contract, yet a significant divide has emerged among unions regarding its viability. Leaders of the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA) are urging their members to reject the deal, which they claim does not sufficiently address rising living costs.
The tentative agreement includes a 3% salary increase starting July 1, 2025, followed by an additional 2% the following year. It also raises the minimum wage for state workers to $18 per hour, ensures that the state covers 85% of employee health care premiums, and introduces new leave options for employees affected by emergencies like wildfires.
Unions must approve a new contract by October 1 to secure funding in the upcoming two-year budget, which Governor Jay Inslee will propose in December. Inslee did not participate in the negotiation process.
The Washington Federation of State Employees, representing 50,000 public sector workers, is advocating for the ratification of the tentative agreement. This federation has 14 contracts undergoing member votes through Friday.
Conversely, the WPEA, which represents about 5,000 members, argues that the proposed salary increases are inadequate, claiming they effectively represent a pay cut. The union had sought a 30% cost-of-living adjustment to help workers cope with escalating costs in food, housing, and healthcare.
In a letter to members, the WPEA highlighted, “The state was unfortunately nowhere near what the team believed to be adequate compensation.”
Kurt Spiegel, executive director of the Washington Federation of State Employees, acknowledged the challenges posed by a forecasted budget deficit and argued that the salary increases are significant given the circumstances. He emphasized that the agreement also includes an additional 2.5% increase for over 330 job classifications.
The terms of the economic package reportedly improved after a midday walkout on September 10, organized by the federation and supported by the WPEA.
Voting began Wednesday at various locations across the state and will conclude after three days, with results expected on Sunday. If the agreement is rejected, the WPEA plans to seek immediate negotiations with the state. However, if no agreement is reached by the October 1 deadline, the existing contract may be extended for another year without any salary increases.
Polling stations have cautioned that not ratifying a contract by the deadline could lead to “uncharted territory” for public labor in Washington, suggesting that a no vote might be the only way to demand overdue changes.