WATCH: Union workers walk out seeking higher pay from state in secret negotiations

The useful part

Thousands of Washington public workers represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees walked off the job Monday at more than 100 worksites, as the union presses for a better contract. Our benefits aren't stretching as far because of the cost of living in this area," said WFSE communications specialist Gillian Fulford in a Monday interview with The Center Square. Bob Ferguson and his budget team have warned that Washington faces a significant budget shortfall and have told state agencies to plan for major spending cuts because tax collections will not cover current program costs.

How it works

• WFSE, which represents about 52,000 workers, is asking for higher pay alongside broader demands for affordable healthcare, expanded paid time off, and compensatory time options.
• The union is also seeking improved staffing levels and workload management, hazard pay, stronger accountability for management, and greater access to training and tuition reimbursement.
• "There will be significant budget shortfalls next biennium in both operating and transportation budgets," wrote the governor's budget director, K.D.
• Mike Yestramski, president of the Washington Federation of State Employees, has wor...