VOL. 43 NO. 10 Members in action. The official newspaper of the DECEMBER 2015 FEDERATION OF STATE See page 8. EMPLOYEES/AFSCME Council 28•AFL-CIO

WASHINGTON

Now good on either www.discoverpass.wa.gov of two vehicles! State Employee INSIDE: Tools for you for Legislature 2016 The legislative session starts Jan. 11. Budget overview - 2 For our families, our co-workers, our communities.... Telling our stories - 3

Pullout with all your legislators and contact info - 4-5

DiStRiCt 6

DiStRiCt 5 On the scene in

Rep. Jeff Holy, R-6, Rep. Kevin DiStRiCt 4 (786-7962) USE YOUR VOICE TO CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORSParker, R-6, Sen. Michaeltner, (786-7922) (jeff.holy Baumgar in.parker @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Chad (kev StRiCt 3 R-6, (786-7610) Di Magendanz, R-5, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Jay (michael. DiStRiCt 14 R-5, (786-7876) Rodne, baumgartner Sen. Mark (chad.magendanz (786-7852) @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 3 Mullet, D-5, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Matt (jay.rodne DiStRiCt 13 (786-7608) Shea, R-4, et @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Bob (mark.mull (786-7984) DiStRiCt 2 McCaslin, R-4, @leg.wa.gov) Sen. Mike (matt shea (786-7820) imm Padden, R-4, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. t D-3, (bob.mccaslin@ DiStRiCt 12 Ormsby, (786-7606) .gov) Sen. Curtis 1 Rep. Marcus leg.wa (786-7946) (mike.padden King, R-14, DiStRiCt Riccelli, D-3, wa.gov) (timm.ormsby @leg. Rep. Matt (786-7626) (786-7888) wa.gov) om Dent, Manweller, R-13, Sen. Andy @leg. Rep. t (curtis.king . Billig, D-3, (marcus.ricelli DiStRiCt 11 rnick, (786-7808) Rep. J. t R-13, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7604) @leg.wa.gov) Sen. Judy Wa (matt.manweller USE YOUR VOICE TO CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORSWilcox, R-2, (786-7932) gov) Rep. Graham (andy.billig R-13, (786-7624) @leg.wa. (786-7912) StRiCt 10 Rep. Brad tom.dent di Hunt, R-2, (786- @leg.wa.gov) Di ns, R-12, (judy.warnick StRiCt 21 Sen. Ran .wilcox Hawki @leg.wa.gov) Di ted Jan. 11. (jt Rep. Cary @leg.wa.gov) hat star 7824) (786-7832) Rep. Luis Becker, R-2, @leg.wa.gov) Condotta, R-12, Listed here are the names of the senator and two representatives (graham.hunt@) Sen. Linda Evans (brad.hawkins Moscoso, D-1, (786-7602) .gov DiStRiCt 10 (786-7954) from each of this state’s 49 legislative districts for the 60-day 2016 Rep. Derek leg.wa Parlette, R-12, @leg.wa.gov) ry (786-7900) (luis (randi.becker Rep. Steve (cary.condotta DiStRiCt 20 regular session of the Legislature t Stanford, D-1, (786-7622) Sen. Rosema .moscoso @leg.wa.gov) Bergquist, D-11, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7928) Rep. Zack (linda.parlette McAuliffe, D-1, (786-7862) a.gov) @leg.wa.gov) Hudgins, D-11, • Democrats control the House, 50-48. with the 25 Republicans in (786-7600) (derek.stanford DiStRiCt 9 Sen. Bob (steve.bergquist @leg.w (786-7956) (rosemary. @leg.wa.gov) Hasegawa, D-11, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Dave (zack.hudgins DiStRiCt 19 Rep. Strom • The Senate has 25im Republicans Sheldon, caucuses and 24 Democrats. However, one mcauliffe@leg. (786-7616) Hayes, R-10, @leg.wa.gov) Peterson, D-21, Democrat, Sen. t wa.gov) (bob.hasegawa Sen. Mark Liias, Ct 8 (786-7914) (786-7950) DiStRi Rep. Norma hayes @leg.wa.gov) D-21, erson the “Majority Coalition Caucus.” (dave. Rep. , (strom.pet Smith, R-10, (786-7640) ory to call or e-mail your legislators directly. Sen. Barbara @leg.wa.gov) R-20, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7884) DiStRiCt 18 Rep. Richard (mark.liias Use this direct e Bailey, R-10, (786-7990) Rep. Jo (norma.smith DeBolt, R-20, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7618) Sen. John (ed.orcutt Schmick, R-9, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7896) DiStRiCt 7 Rep. , (barbara.bailey Braun R-20, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7844) wa.gov) Rep. Brian (richard.debolt DiStRiCt 28 R-9, @leg. (786-7638) Sen. Mark (joe.schmick Blake, D-19, raun @leg.wa.gov) (786-7942) 17 Rep. J.D. D-19, (john.b Schoesler, R-9, @leg.wa.gov) StRiCt (786-7870) Rep. Larry 620) (mary.dye Di Rossetti, blake @leg.wa.gov) r, R-8, (786-7 Sen. Dean (brian. ad Hale @leg.wa.gov) (786-7806) Rep. Br (mark.schoesler takko, D-19, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7986) Rep. Liz (jd.rossetti@leg. DiStRiCt 27 Klippert, R-8, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7636) Sen. Sharon (larry.haler Brandon Pike, R-18, wa.gov) (786-7882) wa.gov) Rep. (dean.takko Brown, R-8, @leg. (786-7812) Rep. Joel (brad.klippert DiStRiCt 16 Vick, R-18, @leg.wa.gov) , R-7, (786-7614) Sen. Ann (liz.pike Rep. Christine Kretz @leg.wa.gov) (786-7850) Kilduff, D-28, Rep. Shelly (sharon.brown Rivers, R-18, @leg.wa.gov) StRiCt 26 Rep. Dick Muri, R-7, (786-7988) 634) (brandon.vick Di (786-7958) n. Brian Short, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7 wa.gov) R-28 Se (joel.kretz. Rep. Paul @leg. Sen. Steve (christine.kilduff (786-7908) (ann.rivers (786-7890) Dansel @leg.wa.gov) StRiCt 15 Harris, R-17, O’Ban R-28, @leg.wa.gov) (shelly.short Di Rep. Lynda 86-7976) @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Jake (dick.muri@leg. R-7, (786-7612) ilson, R-17, (7 Ct 25 -27, (786-7654) an.dansel@ @leg.wa.gov) W DiStRi Fey, D wa.gov) (bri Sen. Don (paul.harris Rep. Laurie (steve.oban DiStRiCt 36 (786-7994) (786-7974) leg.wa.gov) erry Benton, R-17, @leg.wa.gov) Jinkins, D-27, @leg.wa.gov) Ct 14 Rep. t (lynda.wilson Sen. Jeannie 930) (jake.fey DiStRi en (786-7632) eg.wa.gov) (786-7 Nealey, R-16, @l DiStRiCt 25 chelle Darneille, D-27, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Maure (don.benton Rep. Mi (laurie.jinkins DiStRiCt 35 Walsh, R-16, (786-7828) (786-7652) Sen. Mike @leg.wa.gov) sse Caldier, R-26, @leg.wa.gov) R-16, (786-7836) (terry.nealey Rep. Je (jeannie.darneille Hewitt, (786-7802) Rep. David (maureen.walsh @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 24 Young @leg.wa.gov) r, R-15, (786-7630) Sen. (michelle.caldier taylo R-26 (786-7964) Rep. Bruce @leg.wa.gov) R-26 @leg.wa.gov) , R-15, (786-7874) (mike.hewitt Rep. Hans (jesse.young DiStRiCt 34 Chandler (786-7650) wa.gov) Sen. Jim (david.taylor @leg.wa.gov) Zeiger, R-25, @leg. (786-7960) Rep. Melanie (jan.angel Sen. Reuven Honeyford, R-15, @leg.wa.gov) Ct 23 (786-7968) Rep. Gina (bruce.chandler DiStRi Stambaugh, R-25, @leg.wa.gov) Carlyle, D-36, (786-7684) (hans.zeiger Rep. Drew rd @leg.wa.gov) (786-7948) (mela- (786-7670) McCabe, R-14, Sen. Bruce R-25, baugh @leg.wa.gov) MacEwen, R-35, Rep. Norm (jim.honeyfo er, nie.stam DiStRiCt 33 Rep. Dan (reuven.carlyle (786-7856)abe Dammei (786-7902) Johnson R-14, a.mcc @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Steve @leg.wa.gov) im Griffey, R-35, n. @leg.wa.gov) (gin (786-7648) Sen. t (drew.macewen (786-7810) tharinger, D-24, n, D-35, (786-7966) (da @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 22 Rep. Kevin Van (bruce.dammeierv) Sheldo @leg.wa.gov) (norm.johnson (786-7904) go DiStRiCt 32 Rep. Joe griffey De Wege, D-24, @leg.wa. (786-7668) DiStRiCt 43 @leg.wa.gov) Sen. Jim (steve.tharinger Fitzgibbon, @leg.wa.gov) ve, D-24, (786-7916) Rep. Eileen (timothy.sheldon Hargro @leg.wa.gov) D-34, (786-7952) DiStRiCt 21 Rep. Drew (kevin.vandewege Cody, D-34, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7646) DiStRiCt 32 Sen. Sharon (joe.fitzgibbon Hansen, D-23, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7978) Rep. Sherry (jim.hargrove Nelson, D-34, ody @leg.wa.gov) (786-7842) Rep. Mia (eileen.c DiStRiCt 42 Appleton, D-23, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7667) Sen. Christine (drew.hansen ina Gregerson D-33 @leg.wa.gov) (786-7934) Rep. t (sharon.nelson Rolfes, D-23, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7868) Rep. Sam Hunt, (sherry.appleton DiStRiCt 31 Orwall, D-33, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7644) Sen. Karen (mia.gregerson D-22, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7834) Rep. Chris (christine.rolfes Keiser, D-33, rwall (786-7992) Rep. Ruth (tina.o @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 41 Rep. Brady Reykdal, D-22, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7664) Sen. Karen (sam.hunt Kagi, D-32, @leg.wa.gov) Walkinshaw, D-22, (786-7940) (karen.keiser Sen. Jamie Fraser, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7910) D43, (786-7826) Rep. Lillian (chris.reykdal DiStRiCt 30 Rep. Cindy wa.gov) Pedersen, D-43, (786-7642) @leg. Rep. Vincent (brady.walkin- Ortiz-Self, D-21, wa.gov) Ryu, D-32, (ruth.kagi (786-7628) @leg. Sen. Maralyn Buys, R-42, [email protected] (karen.fraser (786-7880) @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 40 Rep. Luanne 854) (jamie.pedersen (786-7972) f Chase, D-32, (786-7 a.gov) tiON: @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Christopher (cindy.ryu Van Werven, R-42, @leg.w (lillian.ortiz-sel (786-7662) Sen. Doug (vincent.buys t iNFORMA Hurst, D-31, @leg.wa.gov) ksen, (786-7980) (lu- AC @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 29 Rep. Drew (maralyn.chase Eric vanwerven @leg.wa.gov) (786-7866) Rep. Judy anne. MORE CONt Stokesbary, @leg.wa.gov) nn R-42, (786-7682) Sen. Pam (christopher.hurst ana Se Clibborn, D-41, @leg.wa.gov) tE Legislative Message Hotline: R-31, R-31, (786-7846) Rep. t (doug.ericksen SENA 1-800-562-6000 , Roach, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7926) gov) By mail: Rep. (drew.stokesbary DiStRiCt 39 D-41, (786-7894) .clibborn @leg.wa. (786-7660) Sen. Steve enn (judy PRESiDENt R-30, @leg.wa.gov) (tana.s Rep. Linda (pam.roach Litzow, R-41, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7830) Rep. Jeff @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 49 • Senate: P.O. Box 404 (insert LD#) Kochmar, R-30, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7641) Sen. Mark (teri.hickel . Kristine Morris, D-40, Olympia, WA B98504-04ox 40600 (insert LD#) (786-7898) Rep (steve.litzow eve Miloscia, R-30, kochmar @leg.wa.gov) (786-7970) • House: P.O. Rep. St (linda. DiStRiCt 38 Lytton, D-40, @leg.wa.gov (786-7658) Sen. Kevin (jeff.morris Olympia, WA 98504-0600 Kirby, D-29, (786-7800) wa.gov) 48 Governor’s Office: Rep. David @leg.wa.gov) Ranker, D-40, ne.lytton @leg. (786-7996) (mark.miloscia (kristi DiStRiCt Sawyer, D-29, by @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Elizabeth (786-7678) (360) 902-4111 (For relay operators Sen. Steve (steve.kir @leg.wa.gov) Lt. Gov. Brad for the deaf or hearing impaired, (786-7906) Scott, R-39, (kevin.ranker Conway, D-29, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Dan Owen, D, please dial 7-1-1) 86-7656) (david.sawyer DiStRiCt 37 (786-7816) @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Jim (7 wa.gov) Kristiansen, (786-7700) E-mail ntact/default.aspform: www.governor.wa. @leg. Sen. Kirk (elizabeth.scott DiStRiCt 47 Moeller, D-49, gov/co (steve.conway R-39, (786-7967) Rep. Sharon (ltgov@leg. Pearson, R-39, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7872) Mail: P.O. Box 98504-000240002 @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Mike (dan.kristiansen Wylie, D-49, wa.gov) Olympia, WA Page 5 tRiCt 36 (786-7676) Sen. Annette (jim.moeller DiS Sells, D-38, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7924) Rep. June (kirk.pearson DiStRiCt 47 Cleveland, D-49, @leg.wa.gov) on, D-38, (786-7840) wa.gov) Rep. Joan (sharon.wylie Robins @leg. (786-7696) Sen. John Mc- (mike.sells McBride, D-48, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7864) Rep. Patty (annette.cleveland Coy, D-38, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7848) Rep. Eric (june.robinson DiStRiCt 46 Kuderer, D-48, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7674) wa.gov) Sen. Cyrus (joan.mcbride Pettigrew, D-37, @leg. (786-7936) Rep. Sharon (john.mccoy Habib, D-48, uderer @leg.wa.gov) ko Santos, (786-7838) Rep. Pat (patty.k tomi @leg.wa.gov) (786-7694) Sen. Pramila (eric.pettigrew Sullivan, D-47, @leg.wa.gov) D-37, (786-7944)s Rep. Mark (cyrus.habib Washington State Employee el Jayapal, D-37, n.santo @leg.wa.gov) (786-7858) Rep. Ga (sharo DiStRiCt 45 Hargrove, R-47, @leg.wa.gov) eton, D-36, (786-7688) (pat.sullivan tarl @leg.wa.gov) (786-7918) WFSE/AFSCME Rep. NO APPt (pramila.jayapal Sen. Joe @leg.wa.gov) (786-7860) (mark.hargrove YEt, D-36, @leg.wa.gov) Fain, R-47, (gael.tarleton Rep. Jessyn @leg.wa.gov) (786-7814) rry Farrell, D-46, (786-7692) @leg.wa.gov) DiStRiCt 44 Rep. Ge (@leg.wa.gov) (786-7818) (joe.fain Pollet, Sen. David (jessyn.farrell @leg.wa.gov) D-46, (786-7886) Frockt, D-46, llet @leg.wa.gov) December 2015 DiStRiCt 43 Rep. Larry (gerry.po (786-7690) Springer, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Roger (david.frockt D-45, (786-7822) Goodman, D-45, @leg.wa.gov) December 2015 Sen. Andy (larry.springer (786-7878) an Hill, R-45, @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Mark (roger.goodm (786-7672) s Harmsworth @leg.wa.gov) Rep. Han (andy.hill R-44, (786-7892) Dunshee, D-44, @leg.wa.gov) Sen. Steve (mark.harmsworth (786-7804) a.gov Hobbs, D-44, hee @leg.w Rep. Frank (hans.duns (786-7686) Washington State Employee Chopp, D-43, @leg.wa.gov) (786-7920) (steve.hobbs chopp wa.gov) WFSE/AFSCME (frank. @leg. @leg.wa.gov) Page 4 2016 “We’re hoping with these The lessons learned raises we’ll be able to fill posi- from their action tions...and psychologists can go back to doing what they “I think the big message ‘We’re taking do best,” said Dr. Kathleen by us doing that action – I Gallagher, a psychologist 4 at think there’s a feeling that Western since 2013. we’re powerless in this “It shows people if we ac- society. And to see people the power back’ tually work together as a team using the union -- with the – and the union is a team – we help of the union -- getting can get things done,” said together and actually Kathy Seiffert, a psychiatric getting something done, social worker 3 at Western we’re taking the power since 2012. back. We are empowering “Part of being a union is people by seeing this being involved,” Simons said. action happen and getting “The union is not a hired gun. results.” The members are the power.” Simons, Gallagher and Anneliese Simons Seiffert are members of Local Psychiatric social worker 3 793 at Western State Hospital. Western State Hospital, Local 793 Part of the solution to a crisis

From left: WFSE/AFSCME General Government Strategic Coordinator Sean Dannen and Local 793 members Dr. Kath- The members involved leen Gallagher, Anneliese Simons and Kathy Seiffert. in the grassroots awareness effort brought a measure of calm to the crisis. How a group of Eastern and Western Washington-Tacoma. And it is a crisis. But she and co-workers The Tacoma News Tri- State Hospital members used their pow- stepped up with a solution, bune reported Nov. 27 that er to come together, speak up and help using the voice they have, the challenge of keeping solve one part of a troubling recruitment coming together as a union. positions filled at Western They initiated a grass- was one reason for an over- and retention problem roots, member-driven effort all safety problem with high to raise awareness, support rates of assaults and injuries. and action. They gathered nneliese Simons is one of the dedicated The recruitment and retention more than 400 letters at East- crisis was cited as one reason psychiatric social worker 3s who has seen ern, Western and from other Western had its federal fund- co-workers leave in the past year as Western WFSE/AFSCME members ing pulled and has not been andA Eastern State Hospitals face a crisis recruiting and making the governor and able to obey the court order keeping good workers. state budget office aware of mandating examination of the crisis. criminal defendants within a They got attention. week. “We have lost so many more a year,” said Simons, On Dec. 1 psychiatric so- in the past year because they who’s worked at Western for cial worker 3s and psycholo- can make much more money eight years with a social work gist 4s began receiving 15 See POWER, page 8 elsewhere -- $10,000 - $20,000 degree from the University of percent assignment pay. EVERY VOICE COUNTS: LEGISLATURE 2016

mental health, programs for the developmentally disabled, Keep in touch and natural resources and our in- get the message out Budget, budget, budget frastructure. Members are using the at the Capitol and WFSE/AFSCME members gear up to make presence known as voice they have under the back home: state faces old and new budget challenges; it all starts Jan. 11. right they have to come to- gether, advocate for public Lobby Days: services and the people who depend on our services. http://wfse.org/get- But there are many bud- involved/lobby-days/ get challenges: • The courts are sorting Hotline updates: out the constitutionality of • Audio – 1-800-562- the latest Tim Eyman initia- tive that passed with less than 6102 super-majority support in • E-mail – sign up at November. If upheld, I-1366 wfse.org/news/ would cut $8 billion in badly • Text updates: Text needed state revenue through NEWS to 237263 2021 at the same time the state must come up with $5 billion to fund the Supreme Court Action alerts: Text mandate on school funding, wfsec28 to 237263 according to state budget of- ficials. • Now comes word that These Local 793 members at Western State Hospital took part with members at some 190 worksites on the Dec. 3 “Day our budget and revenue situ- of Action” to make sure the supplemental budget for 2016-17 funds vital services and protects public employees. ation could get even worse. the duration of tax increases The state Economic and Reve- to one year if not approved by nue Forecast Council on Nov. either a supermajority of the s one longtime ob- Legislators will work on WFSE/AFSCME mem- 18 predicted a $474 million Legislature, or by voters. server recently said, a supplemental budget -- a bers have already scheduled shortfall in the next, full two- the short 60-day 2016 smaller even-number-year Lobby Days on more than year budget for 2017-2019. The background information Alegislative session will be spending plan to tweak the half of those days to press for • And that came the same you asked for is below. about three things: Budget. main biennial budget passed more funding for such vital day Eyman filed another cost- Budget. Budget. in 2015. public services as Children’s, ly initiative that would limit

Gearing up for the cost of fully implementing Budget overview 2016 action. Member HB 2261 could be as much as lobbyists at WFSE/ $5 billion. AFSCME Lobby Currently there is no The following is an over- in the future. In fact, Washing- Training Dec. 12 in consensus in the Legislature view of the major challenges ton state has fallen to 35th in Olympia. on how to come up with the facing state employees as the the nation in terms of tax col- funding necessary to comply Legislature prepares for the lections as a share of personal The legislative ses- with the court order. The chal- 2016 legislative session. income. sion starts Jan. 11. lenge in front of the Legisla- Washington’s tax sys- ture is complex and contro- THE STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFECIT tem – what we tax and what versial – and very expensive. Although Washington we don’t tax – simply isn’t state tax collections are grow- capable of meeting the state’s arbitrary 1 percent cap on Cleary and Venema families, THE THREAT OF INITIATIVE 1366 ing (slowly), total per capita needs any more. property tax growth that fails arguing the state was failing I-1366 was the latest bal- revenue remains far below Washington is a wealthy to keep up with inflation. in its constitutional duty to lot measure from professional pre-recession levels. state, but we don’t tax wealth. At the same time state tax fully fund K-12 education. A initiative-promoter Tim Ey- Personal income in Wash- Instead, we rely on the sales collections as a percent of the trial was held in King County man. ington state is higher than tax as our biggest source of overall economy are declin- Superior Court in 2009. This initiative will de- the national average, and ex- revenue. However, the sales ing, costs for vital public ser- In response, the Legisla- crease the state sales tax by pected to grow even more in tax only applies to goods, not vices are growing. ture adopted HB 2261 in 2009 one cent (from 6.5% down to the future. services, and the purchase of Further, those costs will that redefined basic educa- 5.5%) unless the Legislature However, state revenue goods is a declining share of grow exponentially as demo- tion and set a deadline of full votes to put a constitutional has been declining as a share today’s service-based econo- graphic shifts toward an aging implementation by 2018. amendment on the ballot of personal income for more my. population will result in even Despite passage of this that would permanently and than 20 years. Over-reliance on a sales greater demands for health legislation, the Superior Court forever require a two-thirds In 1995, state and lo- tax limited only to the pur- care and public services in the ruled against the state in 2009, vote of the Legislature to raise cal revenue collections were chase of goods is a major rea- future. the state appealed, and in taxes or close loopholes. equal to 6.6 percent of total son why studies have shown The result is the state of 2012 the state Supreme Court This Eyman initiative is personal income. By 2014 that Washington has the most Washington has a structural ruled in favor of the plaintiffs meant to end-run the 2013 that rate had dropped to 4.9 regressive tax system in the budget deficit that will only and ordered the Legislature state Supreme Court ruling percent -- and this downward nation. be resolved by increasing to comply with HB 2261 and that declared the two-thirds trend is expected to continue There are other significant revenue and/or permanently meet its constitutional duty requirement to be unconstitu- structural problems with our reducing state spending. by 2018. tional. state’s tax system. WASHINGTON We will remain in a state While the Legislature has I-1366 proposes to work State Employee Over the past 100 years of perpetual austerity, with significantly increased K-12 around that problem by forc- the state has enacted well budget battles in the Legis- education spending in recent ing the Legislature to either Washington State Employee (USPS 981- over 600 tax loopholes worth lature every year, until our sessions, they have been un- forward Eyman’s preferred 200) is published monthly, except February billions of dollars. and July, for $5.08 per year by the Washing- structural budget deficit is able to agree on a plan to fully constitutional amendment to ton Federation of State Employees/AFSCME As a result, small and resolved. fund all of the requirements the ballot or face a massive Council 28 • AFL-CIO, 1212 Jefferson St. S.E. marginal businesses pay far Suite 300, Olympia, WA 98501. Affiliated with of the law. reduction in state revenue. the American Federation of State, County more in business taxes than THE IMPACT OF THE McCLEARY As a result, the Supreme I-1366 was adopted this and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and the do large, profitable corpora- Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO. DECISION Court found the Legislature past November with 51.5 tions. The McCleary case refers in contempt and issued fines percent of the vote. The state Periodicals postage paid at Olympia, WA Further, hundreds of mil- and at additional offices. Circulation: to a lawsuit originally filed to the state of $100,000 a day would lose $8 billion over six 42,000. lions in sales tax revenue is in 2007, by the Network of until compliance is achieved. years if the sales tax decrease POSTMASTER: Send address changes to lost to online shopping, and Excellence in Washington The fine itself isn’t a problem contained in I-1366 were to go Washington State Employee, 1212 Jefferson the Legislature enacted an St SE Suite 300 Olympia WA 98501-7501 Schools on behalf of the Mc- for the state financially, but into effect.

Sue Henricksen, President ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OPTION. If you’d like to save paper and postage, you can receive this newspaper electronically. Go to www.wfse.org and hover Greg Devereux, Executive Director over NEWS & INFO, located in the top menu bar. Select from the drop-down list: WASHINGTON STATE EMPLOYEE - Newspaper. Use the form Editor Tim Welch on this page to register for the electronic version. Or e-mail us at [email protected], or write: WFSE/AFSCME, 1212 Jefferson St. S.E., Suite 300, e-mail: [email protected] • Internet: www.wfse.org Member, ILCA Olympia, WA 98501. If you’re a represented non-member fee payer and you don’t wish to receive this publication in any format, e-mail us at con- [email protected], or write: WFSE/AFSCME, 1212 Jefferson St. S.E., Suite 300, Olympia, WA 98501.

Page 2 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee December 2015 EVERY VOICE COUNTS: LEGISLATURE 2016 Coming together, speaking up for public services, helping families get ahead ome 65 members representing WFSE/AFSCME locals and a variety of public their stories -- because the public may distrust the government, but “what job and bargaining unit categories gathered in Olympia Dec. 12 for Lobby they want from the government is what you do every day,” WFSE/AFSCME Legis- Training for 2016. lative and Political Action Director Dennis Eagle told the member lobbyists. SMore than half are first-time member lobbyists. “You guys are our secret weapon,” Eagle said. They got an important briefing on the issues (see some of that background on On this page are some the goals and stories of just 10 of those member lob- page 2). byists. One message is clear: Public Services Matter and are worth speaking up But more importantly they learned how important it is to tell legislators and the for.

“MAKING A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL OF US TO LIVE” “HELPING TROUBLED YOUTH BACK INTO FAMILIES”

“This is our country, our government. It’s our job “I’m a mental health coordinator and I serve over to make things better. If we don’t let our voices be 70 percent mental health population while they’re in heard, if we don’t take whatever means we can take our facility and while they transition back into their to make things better in our lives, in our community, community....I think helping them can help reduce the then we’ve really given up, we aren’t playing a part of recidivism rate so they don’t come back to our facility the game. We can’t complain about the game if we’re or transition to the Department of Corrections.” not willing to contribute.” Nichelle Shelley, juvenile rehabilitation counselor Lesli Younger, an information technology worker at Green Hill School in Chehalis (Local 862), who’s at Eastern Washington University in Cheney (Lo- proud of being on a team that brings families of the cal 931), who’s committed to the Higher Education troubled youth together to “develop a plan” to transi- mission of helping students become “productive tion back into the community. “Ultimately, families are citizens.” the experts of themselves,” Shelley says.

“GETTING ANSWERS TO THOSE WHO NEED THEM” “A VOICE FOR INJURED WORKERS”

“I’m asking support from the public and others to sup- “It’s very important that we pull together and we get a port us in helping us keep full-time employees who message that means something out to legislators.... work in government service. Because they provide As a risk manager, I work with employers to try to valuable services that are needed by the public.” help them put in safety programs to put together ele- Abdullatif Qaasim, a customer services specialist ments to protect their employees from injury.” with the Department of Licensing in Olympia (Local Connie Lewis, Department of Labor & Industries in 443), whose greatest joy is helping callers who “just Everett (Local 1020) don’t know their way around the system. Having a professional there who is trained and motivated and really enjoys what they’re doing” helps stakeholders get the answers they need.

“STANDING UP FOR VULNERABLE POPULATIONS” “MY WHOLE FOCUS IS THE KIDS”

“We serve the most vulnerable populations. (When “The bigger message for the people I serve (in the we talk to legislators) we’re talking about budget cuts DSHS Child Care Division) is to help us keep the that have happened and (now what) we need ad- funding that we need so we can have the resources ditionally to get this job done and serving babies and to take care of these children....That’s my whole children.” focus is the kids.” Mahogany Villars, a social services specialist (so- Jim Crouse, a financial services specialist with cial worker) with DSHS Children’s in Kent (Local 843) DSHS in Ellensburg (Local 1301)

“PRESERVING THE BRIDGE OF COMMUNICATION” “WE MAKE AN AMAZING DIFFERENCE”

“(Medical interpreters) provide a very important “It’s amazing the difference you see in someone’s service because we are a bridge of communication. face when they come in. They’ve got nothing and... It is through us that people can communicate and even if we’re able to give them food assistance, that patients can receive care or help when they need it. person is able to go home that night and make sure It’s a more productive way of working.” their children have food on the table because we Aida Sanchez-Vela, a medical interpreter in Federal were able to help them.” Way (statewide Interpreters United Local 1671). June Sanderson, a financial services specialist in Oak Harbor (Local 1060) who plans to tell legislators about the need to restore funding to the safety net to help our neighbors who hit hard times.

“KEEPING INSURANCE COMPANIES HONEST” “IT’S ABOUT QUALITY PUBLIC SERVICES”

“We are very important to make sure that the in- “I’m advocating for the public, the people who I surance companies are there, they’re solvent and serve...helping people get to someone to resolve they’re doing what they’re supposed to do....It’s really problems with their specific claims in order to get the good for the people of the state of Washington to benefits that they’re eligible for....(We must advocate know that real professionals are supporting them.” for adequate funding for services because) if we Yasen Angelov, a financial analyst with the Office of do nothing, then the system stays the same or gets the Insurance Commissioner in Olympia (Local 443). worse.” Douglas Perry, an unemployment insurance spe- cialist with the Employment Security Department in Spokane (Local 1221)

December 2015 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee Page 3 USE YOUR VOICE TO CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORS

Listed here are the names of the senator and two representatives DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 from each of this state’s 49 legislative districts for the 60-day 2016 regular session of the Legislature that starts Jan. 11.

• Democrats control the House, 50-48.

• The Senate has 25 Republicans and 24 Democrats. However, one Democrat, Sen. Tim Sheldon, caucuses with the 25 Republicans in the “Majority Coalition Caucus.” Sen. Rosemary Rep. Derek Rep. Luis Sen. Randi Rep. Graham Rep. J. T. Sen. Andy McAuliffe, D-1, Stanford, D-1, Moscoso, D-1, Becker, R-2, Hunt, R-2, (786- Wilcox, R-2, Billig, D-3, (786-7600) Use this directory to call or e-mail your legislators directly. (786-7928) (786-7900) (luis (786-7602) 7824) (786-7912) (786-7604) (rosemary. (derek.stanford .moscoso (randi.becker (graham.hunt@ (jt.wilcox (andy.billig mcauliffe@leg. @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) wa.gov) DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 10

Sen. Brian Rep. Shelly Rep. Joel Sen. Sharon Rep. Brad Rep. Larry Sen. Mark Rep. Mary Dye, Rep. Joe Sen. Barbara Rep. Norma Dansel Short, R-7, Kretz, R-7, Brown, R-8, Klippert, R-8, Haler, R-8, Schoesler, R-9, R-9, Schmick, R-9, Bailey, R-10, Smith, R-10, R-7, (786-7612) (786-7908) (786-7988) (786-7614) (786-7882) (786-7986) (786-7620) (786-7942) (786-7844) (786-7618) (786-7884) (brian.dansel@ (shelly.short (joel.kretz. (sharon.brown (brad.klippert (larry.haler (mark.schoesler (mary.dye (joe.schmick (barbara.bailey (norma.smith leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 14 DISTRICT 15 DISTRICT 16 DISTRICT 17

Rep. Norm Rep. Gina Sen. Jim Rep. Bruce Rep. David Sen. Mike Rep. Maureen Rep. Terry Sen. Don Rep. Lynda Rep. Paul Johnson R-14, McCabe, R-14, Honeyford, R-15, Chandler, R-15, Taylor, R-15, Hewitt, R-16, Walsh, R-16, Nealey, R-16, Benton, R-17, Wilson, R-17, Harris, R-17, (786-7810) (786-7856) (786-7684) (786-7960) (786-7874) (786-7630) (786-7836) (786-7828) (786-7632) (786-7994) (786-7976) (norm.johnson (gina.mccabe (jim.honeyford (bruce.chandler (david.taylor (mike.hewitt (maureen.walsh (terry.nealey (don.benton (lynda.wilson (paul.harris @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) DISTRICT 21 DISTRICT 22 DISTRICT 23 DISTRICT 24 DISTRICT 25

Rep. Lillian Sen. Karen Rep. Chris Rep. Sam Hunt, Sen. Christine Rep. Sherry Rep. Drew Sen. Jim Rep. Kevin Van Rep. Steve Sen. Bruce Ortiz-Self, D-21, Fraser, D-22, Reykdal, D-22, D-22, Rolfes, D-23, Appleton, D-23, Hansen, D-23, Hargrove, D-24, De Wege, D-24, Tharinger, D-24, Dammeier, R-25, (786-7972) (786-7642) (786-7940) (786-7992) (786-7644) (786-7934) (786-7842) (786-7646) (786-7916) (786-7904) (786-7648) (lillian.ortiz-self (karen.fraser (chris.reykdal (sam.hunt (christine.rolfes (sherry.appleton (drew.hansen (jim.hargrove (kevin.vandewege (steve.tharinger (bruce.dammeier @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 29 DISTRICT 30 DISTRICT 31 DISTRICT 32

Sen. Steve Rep. David Rep. Steve Sen. Mark Rep. Linda Rep. Teri Hickel, Sen. Pam Rep. Drew Rep. Christopher Sen. Maralyn Rep. Cindy Conway, D-29, Sawyer, D-29, Kirby, D-29, Miloscia, R-30, Kochmar, R-30, R-30, Roach, R-31, Stokesbary, Hurst, D-31, Chase, D-32, Ryu, D-32, (786-7656) (786-7906) (786-7996) (786-7658) (786-7898) (786-7830) (786-7660) R-31, (786-7846) (786-7866) (786-7662) (786-7880) (steve.conway (david.sawyer (steve.kirby (mark.miloscia (linda.kochmar (teri.hickel (pam.roach (drew.stokesbary (christopher.hurst (maralyn.chase (cindy.ryu @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 36 DISTRICT 37 DISTRICT 38 DISTRICT 39

Rep. NO APPT Rep. Gael Sen. Pramila Rep. Sharon Rep. Eric Sen. John Mc- Rep. June Rep. Mike Sen. Kirk Rep. Dan Rep. Elizabeth YET, D-36, Tarleton, D-36, Jayapal, D-37, Tomiko Santos, Pettigrew, D-37, Coy, D-38, Robinson, D-38, Sells, D-38, Pearson, R-39, Kristiansen, Scott, R-39, (786-7814) (786-7860) (786-7688) D-37, (786-7944) (786-7838) (786-7674) (786-7864) (786-7840) (786-7676) R-39, (786-7967) (786-7816) (@leg.wa.gov) (gael.tarleton (pramila.jayapal (sharon.santos (eric.pettigrew (john.mccoy (june.robinson (mike.sells (kirk.pearson (dan.kristiansen (elizabeth.scott @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 43 DISTRICT 44 DISTRICT 45 DISTRICT 46 DISTRICT 47

Rep. Frank Sen. Steve Rep. Hans Rep. Mark Sen. Andy Rep. Roger Rep. Larry Sen. David Rep. Gerry Rep. Jessyn Sen. Joe Chopp, D-43, Hobbs, D-44, Dunshee, D-44, Harmsworth Hill, R-45, Goodman, D-45, Springer, Frockt, D-46, Pollet, Farrell, D-46, Fain, R-47, (786-7920) (786-7686) (786-7804) R-44, (786-7892) (786-7672) (786-7878) D-45, (786-7822) (786-7690) D-46, (786-7886) (786-7818) (786-7692) (frank.chopp (steve.hobbs (hans.dunshee (mark.harmsworth (andy.hill (roger.goodman (larry.springer (david.frockt (gerry.pollet (jessyn.farrell (joe.fain @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

Page 4 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee December 2015 USE YOUR VOICE TO CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORS

DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 6

Rep. Marcus Rep. Timm Sen. Mike Rep. Bob Rep. Matt Sen. Mark Rep. Jay Rep. Chad Sen. Michael Rep. Kevin Rep. Jeff Riccelli, D-3, Ormsby, D-3, Padden, R-4, McCaslin, R-4, Shea, R-4, Mullet, D-5, Rodne, R-5, Magendanz, R-5, Baumgartner, Parker, R-6, Holy, R-6, (786-7888) (786-7946) (786-7606) (786-7820) (786-7984) (786-7608) (786-7852) (786-7876) R-6, (786-7610) (786-7922) (786-7962) (marcus.ricelli (timm.ormsby (mike.padden (bob.mccaslin@ ( (mark.mullet (jay.rodne (chad.magendanz (michael. (kevin.parker (jeff.holy @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) baumgartner @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) DISTRICT 10 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 12 DISTRICT 13 DISTRICT 14

Rep. Dave Sen. Bob Rep. Zack Rep. Steve Sen. Linda Evans Rep. Cary Rep. Brad Sen. Judy Warnick, Rep. , Rep. Matt Sen. Curtis Hayes, R-10, Hasegawa, D-11, Hudgins, D-11, Bergquist, D-11, Parlette, R-12, Condotta, R-12, Hawkins, R-12, R-13, (786-7624) R-13, Manweller, R-13, King, R-14, (786-7914) (786-7616) (786-7956) (786-7862) (786-7622) (786-7954) (786-7832) (judy.warnick (786-7932) (786-7808) (786-7626) (dave.hayes (bob.hasegawa (zack.hudgins (steve.bergquist (linda.parlette (cary.condotta (brad.hawkins @leg.wa.gov) tom.dent (matt.manweller (curtis.king @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 18 DISTRICT 19 DISTRICT 20 DISTRICT 21

Sen. Ann Rep. Brandon Rep. Liz Sen. Dean Rep. J.D. Rep. Brian Sen. John Rep. Richard Rep. Ed Orcutt, Sen. Mark Liias, Rep. Strom Rivers, R-18, Vick, R-18, Pike, R-18, Takko, D-19, Rossetti, D-19, Blake, D-19, Braun R-20, DeBolt, R-20, R-20, D-21, Peterson, D-21, (786-7634) (786-7850) (786-7812) (786-7636) (786-7806) (786-7870) (786-7638) (786-7896) (786-7990) (786-7640) (786-7950) (ann.rivers (brandon.vick (liz.pike (dean.takko (jd.rossetti@leg. (brian.blake (john.braun (richard.debolt (ed.orcutt (mark.liias (strom.peterson @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 25 DISTRICT 26 DISTRICT 27 DISTRICT 28

Rep. Melanie Rep. Hans Sen. Jan Angel Rep. Jesse Rep. Michelle Sen. Jeannie Rep. Laurie Rep. Jake Sen. Steve Rep. Dick Muri, Rep. Christine Stambaugh, R-25, Zeiger, R-25, R-26 Young Caldier, R-26, Darneille, D-27, Jinkins, D-27, Fey, D-27, O’Ban R-28, R-28 Kilduff, D-28, (786-7948) (mela- (786-7968) (786-7650) R-26 (786-7964) (786-7802) (786-7652) (786-7930) (786-7974) (786-7654) (786-7890) (786-7958) nie.stambaugh (hans.zeiger (jan.angel (jesse.young (michelle.caldier (jeannie.darneille (laurie.jinkins (jake.fey (steve.oban (dick.muri@leg. (christine.kilduff @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 32 DISTRICT 33 DISTRICT 34 DISTRICT 35 DISTRICT 36

Rep. Ruth Sen. Karen Rep. Tina Rep. Mia Sen. Sharon Rep. Eileen Rep. Joe Sen. Tim Rep. Dan Rep. Drew Sen. Reuven Kagi, D-32, Keiser, D-33, Orwall, D-33, Gregerson D-33 Nelson, D-34, Cody, D-34, Fitzgibbon, Sheldon, D-35, Griffey, R-35, MacEwen, R-35, Carlyle, D-36, (786-7910) (786-7664) (786-7834) (786-7868) (786-7667) (786-7978) D-34, (786-7952) (786-7668) (786-7966) (dan. (786-7902) (786-7670) (ruth.kagi (karen.keiser (tina.orwall (mia.gregerson (sharon.nelson (eileen.cody (joe.fitzgibbon (timothy.sheldon griffey (drew.macewen (reuven.carlyle @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov)

DISTRICT 40 DISTRICT 41 DISTRICT 42 DISTRICT 43

Sen. Kevin Rep. Kristine Rep. Jeff Sen. Steve Rep. Rep. Judy Sen. Doug Rep. Luanne Rep. Vincent Sen. Jamie Rep. Brady Ranker, D-40, Lytton, D-40, Morris, D-40, Litzow, R-41, D-41, (786-7894) Clibborn, D-41, Ericksen, Van Werven, R-42, Buys, R-42, Pedersen, D-43, Walkinshaw, (786-7678) (786-7800) (786-7970) (786-7641) (tana.senn (786-7926) R-42, (786-7682) (786-7980) (lu- (786-7854) (786-7628) D43, (786-7826) (kevin.ranker (kristine.lytton (jeff.morris (steve.litzow @leg.wa.gov) (judy.clibborn (doug.ericksen anne.vanwerven (vincent.buys (jamie.pedersen (brady.walkin- @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) [email protected]) DISTRICT 49 MORE CONTACT INFORMATION: DISTRICT 47 DISTRICT 48 SENATE PRESIDENT Legislative Message Hotline: 1-800-562-6000 By mail: • Senate: P.O. Box 404 (insert LD#) Olympia, WA 98504-04 (insert LD#) • House: P.O. Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504-0600 Rep. Mark Rep. Pat Sen. Cyrus Rep. Patty Rep. Joan Sen. Annette Rep. Sharon Rep. Jim Lt. Gov. Brad Governor’s Office: Owen, D, (360) 902-4111 (For relay operators Hargrove, R-47, Sullivan, D-47, Habib, D-48, Kuderer, D-48, McBride, D-48, Cleveland, D-49, Wylie, D-49, Moeller, D-49, for the deaf or hearing impaired, (786-7918) (786-7858) (786-7694) (786-7936) (786-7848) (786-7696) (786-7924) (786-7872) (786-7700) please dial 7-1-1) (mark.hargrove (pat.sullivan (cyrus.habib (patty.kuderer (joan.mcbride (annette.cleveland (sharon.wylie (jim.moeller (ltgov@leg. E-mail form: www.governor.wa. @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) @leg.wa.gov) wa.gov) gov/contact/default.asp Mail: P.O. Box 40002 Olympia, WA 98504-0002 December 2015 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee Page 5 UNION NEWS Bipartisan opposition builds to Supreme Court case aimed at us

Three prominent Re- publican Washington state More online: senators, including the No. 2 presiding officer in the Senate There are many online and the former chair of the sources exposing the state Republican party, have real goals of the Fried- sided with public workers against a case pending before richs case and groups the U.S. Supreme Court that using it to “dismantle” would make it even harder our voice. for public workers like us to A good one is Ameri- Roach Benton Miloscia come together, speak up and caWorksTogether: get ahead. http://americaworksto- And, they say, the case the 30th Legislative District, better wages and benefits that the court case interferes with violates conservative prin- gether.us/ a noted government watch- sustain their families and win their responsibility to provide ciples separating federal and dog and chair of the Senate improvements on the job, like “effective and efficient state state responsibilities for good Accountability and Reform health and safety. government services through government and labor rela- Committee. These Republicans who the work of public employ- tions. Security Committee; support public workers said ees.” Signing one of dozens Roach, Benton and Milos- the Friedrichs case interferes “friend-of-the court” amicus • Sen. Don Benton of the cia joined dozens of other cur- with how each of the states • Also: Washington’s th briefs in the so-called Fried- 17 Legislative District, for- rent and former Republican chooses to handle its labor Attorney General Bob Fer- richs case were: mer head of the Washington members of state legislatures relations with its employees, guson was one of the 22 AGs State Republican Party and and Congress from across violating long-held conserva- who signed the “friend-of- • Sen. of chair of the Senate Financial st the country in voicing their tive values separating powers the-court” brief supporting the 31 Legislative District, Institutions and Insurance objections to the Friedrichs between the federal govern- public workers on the same president pro-tem of the Sen- Committee; and case, which harms the ability ment and each of the 50 states. case pending before the high ate and chair of the Senate of public employees to band Further, they and the oth- court. Government Operations and • Sen. Mark Miloscia of together with others to win er prominent Republicans say,

Arbitrator rules against union on health surcharges On the front lines for Green River members

An arbitrator Nov. 11 ruled ployee Unions. The union earlier this month laid This comes in the wake of the against WFSE/AFSCME and upheld “Those surcharges are a charge out the hypocrisy, lack of oversight recent layoff of three maintenance me- the tobacco and spouse/partner sur- or fee that is not related to the cost and humanity at Green River College chanics from the facilities department. charges enacted in 2014. of providing health care benefits, but in a presentation to the State Board for Hamilton told the board Dec. 3: The union had filed a grievance rather is based on behavior (tobacco) Community and Technical Colleges. “All dealt with a constant backlog in April 2014 challenging the sur- or status (availability of comparable WFSE/AFSCME Higher Educa- of work orders in a constant state of charges on the grounds they violated insurance for spouse/partner),” tion Strategic Coordinator Mark Ham- inadequate staffing, which jeopardizes the contract agreement limiting the the arbitrator said. “The state’s ilton told the state board that allowing the maintenance of state facilities and share of the employee’s health insur- adoption of the surcharges was not Green River to spend $4.1 million on employee safety. ance premium costs to 15 percent. contrary to the parties’ agreement the renovation of their Student Affairs “Green River College claims that The arbitrator disagreed, say- that employees would only have to and Success Building -- given their shortfalls in the capital projects budget ing the surcharges did not violate pay 15 percent of the total weighted poor treatment of staff (earning votes necessitated these layoffs. It is our the Health Benefits Agreement ne- average of the projected health care of no confidence) -- “was tantamount opinion that the budget is being used gotiated between the state and the premium.” to giving Green River College a lot of as an excuse to cover up retaliatory Federation-led Coalition of State Em- money as a reward for bad behavior.” behavior and anti union animus.” The San Bernardino massacre really was a union tragedy

n the wake of the Dec. 2 massacre in San Bernardino it turned out that 12 of the 14 victims were Iunion members. The Huffington Post reports that 10 were members of SEIU Local 721, which represents county environmental health specialists like those gunned down at the holiday party at the Inland Regional Center. These members regularly worked at the state facility that serves people with developmental disabilities, offering work programs and social services. Two other victims were members of Teamsters Local 1932, which also most vulnerable citizens and public represents public sector workers in service workers dedicated to the health San Bernardino. and well being of their communities All 14 members were dedicated would be targeted this way. Every day, workers and beloved family members. our nation’s public service workers For more on who they were, here’s -- including health care providers, a good link from the social workers, law enforcement and Times: http://www.latimes.com/ first responders -- head out into their local/lanow/la-me-ln-san-bernardino- communities to aid those in need and shooting-victims-htmlstory.html keep America running. They deserve AFSCME President Lee Saunders nothing less than safety and respect. spoke for all AFSCME members when We will not forget the contributions he said Dec. 3: of those who died, and through our “Our hearts are heavy with the work, we will honor them.” senseless loss of life suffered in San AFSCME has set up a special online Bernardino yesterday. We pray for the center where you can leave condolences. families and colleagues of those killed. We have a link on our website: It is unconscionable that some of our http://wfse.org/san-bernardino/

Page 6 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee December 2015 THE CORNER PAGE MEMBERS ONLY BENEFITS CORNER PSERS, from page 8 after recent media reports about high assault rates at Western State Hospital, Henricksen said. NEW FOR 2016! She said similar patterns exist at other DSHS institutions, juvenile parole and community facilities and Veterans’ Affairs homes. “HB 1718 would bring these high-risk positions into line with current pension policy that recognizes the high-risk jobs of police, firefighters, park rangers, Community Corrections officers and other Department of Correc- MEMBER BENEFIT tions personnel, county juvenile detention workers and others.” SHB 1718 passed the House 95-3 in 2015 but did not get a hearing in the Interest-Free Senate. It remains alive in the 2016 legislative session that starts Jan. 11.

our members of Congress to be co- RPEC CORNER sponsors and secure its passage. SHOPPING Online: rpecwa.org Take advantage of your member shopping program to buy what you want and need, then make Oppose the Trans-Pacific Partnership low, convenient payments over 12 months. RPEC will oppose the TPP as long as it includes provisions that increase Program advantages: 2016 federal priorities the cost of drugs for Medicare recipi- • Pay no interest ents or robs the Medicare Trust Funds. • Low, convenient automatic electronic payments “Retirees are flexing our ever-grow- † • Pay no fees ing political muscle by meeting with • No credit checks Support Federal Basic Health Option every member of Congress in the state RPEC will support legislation You’re eligible when you: to ensure they are aware of how fed- adopting a Federal Basic Health Option eral legislation impacts our members,” • Are 18 years or older as an affordable option for retirees with • Earn at least $18,000 per year says Dan Petruso, a member of RPEC’s a limited income. • Are a current, active Member of AFSCME, Legislative and Political Action Com- whether currently employed or retired mittees. “Our Congressional represen- Elimination of the WEP/GPO (Wind- • Have been a member of AFSCME 12 payments of * tatives need to understand how impor- fall Elimination Provision/Govern- for at least 3 months $ 00 75 tant and fragile retirement security is ment Pension Offset) For more information and to place an order: and that they will be held accountable Increase support of legislation for their votes.” Call: 866-441-9160, Monday through Friday repealing this unjust denial of accumu- from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT lated Social Security benefits for public Email: [email protected] The Retired Public Employees employees impacted. Council of Washington had their Con- Powered by 12 payments of vention Sept. 23 and 24 in Pasco. One Taxation of Social Security Benefits $ 33* 33 of the major discussions that took place RPEC will pursue elimination of was which priorities RPEC needed to taxes on Social Security benefits. focus on for the coming year to set the Shop thousands of name-brand products today! agenda. The 2016 Federal Priorities If you are getting close to retire- include: ment and want to join, or you have any www.mypaycheckdirect.com/afscme questions on the information, feel free Strengthen Social Security to contact us directly: (360) 352-8262 or †See details on your installment agreement generated during the checkout process. RPEC will support the Strengthen- * The price per payment shown is based on 12 payments and doesn’t include shipping and taxes. Your payment may vary based on the number of payments you make a year. toll-free: 1-800-562-6097. To see your payment amount, visit the website or see details on your installment agreement. PayCheck Direct® is operated by Bluestem Enterprises, Inc. 63074 ing Social Security Act, S 731 and urge

tion. Contact: Felicia Wright. (360) 902- of shared leave to cover the extended Tammy Amos, a financial services spe- SHARED LEAVE 9532. time she will need while in Texas caring cialist 3 at the DSHS Puyallup Communi- for her terminally ill son. Contact: Robin ty Service Office and a member of Local REQUESTS More shared leave requests: Calhoun, (253) 761-7566, or your own 53, has been approved for shared leave Karen Lewis, a tax specialist 3 with human resource office. because of a serious medical condition. STILL IN NEED OF SHARED LEAVE: the Employment Security Department Contact: your human resource office. Sarah Sumers, a custodian 1 with the in Olympia and a member of Local 443, Anthony Aguimatang, a financial ser- Department of Enterprise Services in has been approved for shared leave. vices specialist 3 with the DSHS South Maria Olesen, a financial services spe- Olympia and a member of Local 443, She is running low on leave, so any help Sound Phone Team in Pierce County cialist 4 with DSHS in Spokane, is in has been off work since March 30 and is would be appreciated. Contact: your and a member of Local 53, has been need of shared leave. Contact: your hu- in need of shared leave to cover the time human resource office. approved for shared leave. Contact: your man resource office. she will miss during her extended recov- human resource office. ery from spinal surgery. Contact: Megan Leslie Daisley, a financial services Nancy Gomez, a financial services Melton at (360) 407-8426, or your hu- specialist 3 at the DSHS Federal Way Robert Uitto, a custodian 3 at Western specialist 3 with DSHS in Federal Way man resource office. Community Service Office and a mem- State hospital and a member of Local and a member of Local 843, has been ber of Local 843, has been approved 793, is in need of shared leave to cover approved for shared leave. Contact: your Rene Whittington, an office assistant for shared leave. Contact: your human the extended time he will need for his human resource office. 2 with the Employment Security Depart- resource office. recovery. He will be out about three ment in Olympia and a member of Lo- months. Contact: Robin Calhoun, (253) Shaunda Holbrook, a financial services cal 443, has been approved for shared Regina Garner, a food service worker 761-7566, or your human resource of- specialist 3 with DSHS at Spokane leave because of a serious health condi- with Western State Hospital in Lakewood fice. Maple Community Service Office and and a member of Local 793, is in need a member of Local 1221, is in need of shared leave because of a serious medi- cal condition. She has used all her avail- War, McNatt came home wounded. He Christine An- able leave. Any donation would be great- IN earned a Purple Heart. Back home, nette “Chris” ly appreciated. Contact: Karla Stewart at he began his career at Eastern State Slater, a (509) 227-2720, or your human resource MEMORIAM Hospital. temporary as- office. sociate for the Lee Mc- McNatt stood up for his members union in WFSE/ Alicia Solomon, a financial services Natt, the re- as Local 782 president, WFSE/AF- AFSCME’s specialist 4 with DSHS in Bellingham tired former SCME Executive Board member, Insti- Spokane Field and a member of Local 1060, will need Local 782 tutions Policy Committee delegate and Office who filled to take time off work for surgery and re- president many more leadership positions. in periodically covery and will not have enough leave at East- in recent years, to cover her absences. Contact: Vickie ern State Notable fights under his leader- died Nov. 20. Rothenbuhler, (360) 714-4006, or your Hospital ship included the $10 million back pay She was 63. human resource office. in Medical settlement for psychiatric security at- She enjoyed the outdoors, her gar- Sarah Sumers, a custodian 1 with the Lake, died tendants in 1987, efforts to add staff at den and caring for animals at a local Department of Enterprise Services in Eastern and the effort to save Interlake veterinary clinic. Nov. 18. Olympia and a member of Local 443, School – the residential habilitation She is survived by a sister and The long- has been off work since March 30 and is time licensed practical nurse was 69. center ultimately closed in 1993 but six brothers, nieces, nephews and great in need of shared leave to cover the time years after then-Gov. Booth Gardner nieces and great nephews. Funeral she will miss during her extended recov- Services were Dec. 3, in Spokane. wanted to shut it down. services were held Nov. 28 in Otis Or- ery from spinal surgery. Contact: Megan chards. Melton at (360) 407-8426, or your hu- As a U.S. Marine in the Vietnam • • • man resource office.

December 2015 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee Page 7 MEMBERS IN ACTION

thousands of WFSE/AF- She shared that the top members care about in the Survey says--community SCME members who took the issues she listed on the Com- community makes for a stron- union’s Community Survey. munity Survey were income ger union,” Anderson said. All respondents were eligible inequality and pay equity, Overall, members who and union intertwined for a drawing and Blackmer especially any gender-based took the Community Survey won the prize: a tablet com- hindrances to promotion. listed the top four issues or Clarissa Blackmer is one puter. “Especially working in challenges they and their WFSE/AFSCME member And she gets to represent the social services field, I communities face as: income who sees the union as a vital all those who took the survey. think it’s important that we inequality, affordable health part of our communities. Blackmer sees the union take into account the various care, retirement security and And members’ commu- as tied to strong communities. diversity that we have,” she student debt. nity activities a vital part of She’s involved in her said. And as Blackmer says, the union. church, the Church of Jesus The overall Community we’re the “day-to-day face “It helps people under- Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Survey was about building of the union” that can help stand what it is that we’re the National Alliance on Men- strong community alliances to address some of these chal- really doing in our jobs and tal Health and other commu- strengthen our ability to win lenges. what we’re trying to achieve nity groups. at the bargaining table, in the for the overall well being of Before coming to Wash- Legislature and in the work- The union has a program of the community,” said Black- ington, she was part of the place, said Brandon Ander- workshops on health care, retire- mer, a social services special- Utah Public Employees Asso- son, a community organizer ment security and student debt. ist 3 with DSHS Children’s ciation for 11 years. for WFSE/ARSCME. Many WFSE/AFSCME mem- Administration in Bellevue Clarissa Blackmer, Community “I think it’s critical that “We know our union is bers’ stories in this newspaper and a member of Local 843. Survey winner the union gets together and is highly engaged in the com- highlight the efforts to remedy Blackmer was one of clear on our voice,” she said. munity and knowing what income inequality at all levels.

Members gather to map strategy on high-cost areas

Following up on the resolution passed by the 2015 WFSE/AFSCME Convention, state employee member activists gathered in Seattle Dec. 12 to develop a strategy to help state employees in high- HOLIDAY SPIRIT AT NASELLE. Jack Smith (center) of Local 2263 at Naselle cost areas of the state. It was an important first step to address the impact that the high cost of Youth Camp presents $500 check the local donated to the Combined Fund living in some areas is having on our members and the services we provide. (The “Resolution for Drive “Everyone Eats Campaign” Nov. 20. Receiving the check are DSHS Equal Standard of Living for State Employees” was adopted by convention delegates in October on Secretary Kevin Quigley and Cheryl Raistakka. a vote of 191-116.)

PSERS: Lawmakers urged to back earlier retirement for high-risk institutions workers WFSE/AFSCME is once sion Policy to back legislation who work in those jobs put tem allows its members to re- again pushing lawmakers to (SHB 1718) to add those high- their lives on the line every tire at age 60 without penalty, allow beaten-and-battered risk workers to the Public time they enter their work a lower early retirement factor institutions workers to retire Safety Employees Retirement units. They face high amounts than in the PERS system and a earlier. System (PSERS). of injuries because of assaults more generous death benefit. Union President Sue “I’m here to tell you that on staff by patients, residents The need is more acute Henricksen on Dec. 15 asked HB 1718 is just the right thing or juvenile offenders.” the Select Committee on Pen- to do,” she said. “Members The PSERS retirement sys- See PSERS, page 7 Henricksen

POWER, from page 1 here despite liking the work,” Simons said. The assignment pay is And the crisis was acute also fiscally responsible. for psychiatric social worker “Imagine the cost sav- 3s and psychologist 4s. ings if people actually stayed But these workers at versus the expenses of having Western State Hospital in to keep rehiring in those posi- Lakewood and Eastern State tions,” Gallagher said. Hospital in Medical Lake “It also creates instability came together to work on a for the patients on the wards. solution. You need stability for the They fanned out at both patients in order for them to campuses and other worksites Signing letters of support for psychologist 4s and psychiatric social worker 3s. recover.” where WFSE/AFSCME mem- bers stood in solidarity with • • • them. social worker 3s and psychol- psychologist cares about them As part of Local 793’s commitment They gathered more than ogist 4 positions at Eastern and works with them, they’re More still needs to be done. to be part of the solution, they joined 400 letters to the governor and Western. The assignment going to be less likely to act “We must continue to take ac- with the administration last month to and state budget office docu- pay took effect Dec. 1. out,” Gallagher said. tion to get pay parity for psy- open an onsite Recruitment Center. menting the need for action. “I think you’re going to Many social workers and chologist 4s and psychiatric WFSE/AFSCME Vice President They said recruitment and have better morale, increased psychologists come into East- social worker 3s at the Child Judy Kuschel (right, with Local retention issues affect care for safety and better quality of ern and Western with huge Study and Treatment Center in 793’s James Robinson) was on patients, court requirements patient care,” Seiffert said. student debt. Seiffert, Simons Lakewood, the Special Commit- hand for the grand opening. and continuum of care. The recruitment and re- and Gallagher say it can ment Center on McNeil Island, And on Nov. 24, the state tention crisis has meant work- cost $40,000 to earn a social Veterans’ Affairs and Develop- Office of Financial Manage- ers have taken on other tasks worker degree and $80,000 to mental Disabilities Administra- ment announced it would because of the short staffing. $100,000 for a psychologist’s tion,” said Sean Dannen, WFSE/ implement a 15 percent as- “It helps with safety be- doctorate. AFSCME’s general government signment pay for psychiatric cause if the patient knows the “They can’t afford to stay strategic coordinator.

Page 8 WFSE/AFSCME Washington State Employee December 2015