Washington State Workers Secure New Contract with Wage and Leave Gains

Washington State Workers Secure Major Gains in New Contract

In a significant development for public sector employees in Washington, members of the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE/AFSCME Council 28) have successfully ratified a new contract following extended negotiations lasting nearly six months.

The contract, which affects the majority of WFSE members, introduces several key improvements, including robust wage hikes and a new minimum wage floor set at $18 per hour. Additionally, the agreement enhances leave policies among other benefits.

The breakthrough in negotiations came after a concerted effort by state employees, who staged a walkout on September 10, dubbed the Walkout for Washington. This protest saw thousands of union members rallying for equitable contract terms across the state.

Despite the state's precarious budget situation, WFSE members secured a significant win. WFSE President and AFSCME Vice President Mike Yestramski commended the workers' efforts, stating, “Facing a massive budget deficit and original offers that amounted to a pay cut, our members organized and made themselves heard, resulting in an economic package that was close to double what the state originally planned on providing.” He highlighted that the contract addresses overdue pay adjustments, particularly for support staff and skilled trades.

Key provisions in the ratified contract include:

• General wage increases of 3% in 2025 and 2% in 2026.
• Over $300 million allocated to maintain a health care premium share of 85%/15% and to enhance the Flexible Spending Account benefit to $300 for those earning $68,004 or less annually.
• Implementation of an $18 per hour starting wage for state employees.
• More than 330 classifications receiving specific pay increases, with additional raises for over 40 classifications through reallocations.
• Expanded leave options, including improved bereavement leave and new leave types for wildfire emergencies.
• Extended eligibility for 24/7 pay benefits.

WFSE Executive Director Kurt Spiegel emphasized the significance of the contract, noting it achieved “a record number of class-specific increases,” and the new starting wage would provide “much needed pay increases to the state’s lowest wage earners.”

The successful contract negotiation underscores the strength of worker unity and solidarity. As WFSE Vice President Ashley Fueston remarked, “When we fight, we win! Without member action we never would have seen a tentative agreement like the one we ratified. Getting loud and fighting are the reason management made movement.”