The largest union representing Washington state government workers — the Washington Federation of State Employees — has tentatively agreed to a new two-year contract after several weeks of tense negotiations and a statewide strike. The agreement covers the period from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2029, and affects about 42,000 employees. Its terms have not yet been disclosed: Union members will review them first and then vote to approve or reject the contract.
The Washington State Employees Association reached a similar tentative agreement Thursday. The union represents roughly 2,500 workers across nine agencies, including the departments of Natural Resources, Revenue and Agriculture. The agreement does not provide for across-the-board pay raises, but it allows the parties to reopen wage negotiations during the contract term. Association President Amanda Hacker said the lack of a raise would mean further erosion of employees’ purchasing power, as many are already struggling to afford housing, groceries and other basic expenses.
The negotiations took place amid warnings from state officials about another budget shortfall. Gov. Bob Ferguson’s administration insisted on zero wage increases, citing a lack of funding, while contract talks with other unions continue. All agreements must be ratified by Oct. 1 so they can be included in the next two-year budget, which the governor will present in December. A separate agreement will preserve the existing health insurance cost-sharing structure: The state will cover 85% of monthly premiums, while employees will pay 15%. The cost to the state budget is estimated at $348.5 million.
Based on: Two WA public-sector unions reach tentative deals on new contracts