Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson will not receive a raise over the next two years. The state’s Citizens’ Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials recommended freezing his salary, as well as the pay of the attorney general and lieutenant governor. The decision comes amid the state’s strained financial situation and after new two-year contracts with public employee unions included neither across-the-board raises nor cost-of-living adjustments.
At the same time, lawmakers, the head of the public education system, the treasurer and the commissioner of public lands were recommended for 2% raises beginning in July 2027, followed by another 2% increase a year later. Judges, including members of the state Supreme Court, could receive similar increases. For the secretary of state, insurance commissioner and state auditor, the commission recommended 5% raises in each of the next two years. Commission members said higher salaries are necessary to attract strong candidates to some positions. Ferguson currently earns $234,275 a year, while Attorney General Nick Brown earns $221,614.
The recommendations are not yet final: over the next four months, the commission will hold public discussions and hearings, after which it may revise the schedule and adopt a final decision in February in Olympia. The 17-member commission of unpaid citizens was created by voters in 1987 to prevent politicians from setting their own salaries. Its members are required to consider primarily the responsibilities of the offices, rather than the individuals holding them; elected officials and judges cannot change decisions adopted by the commission.
Based on: Citizen panel rejects pay hike for WA Gov. Bob Ferguson