Bob says no, even to saving money - General Government Bargaining Update 8

As we near our critical August 31st walkouts, we want to give you a clear, honest update on where things stand.

#1. The only way we make gains is if members step up and make their voices heard 

To send a message this administration can’t ignore, we need all of you to join your union siblings at an August 31st walkout site near you.

Sitting back won't change the dynamic at the negotiations table—but showing up in unprecedented numbers will.

Register. Show Up. Bring Your Coworkers.

If you're planning to participate on August 31, RSVP today - even if you already know where you're going.

Your RSVP helps us prepare for a powerful statewide action. It allows walkout leaders and organizers to plan for turnout, make sure locations have the supplies and support they need, and identify where we can amplify our presence with press and communications. 

Most importantly, it helps us tell the story of what WFSE members did together: Thousands of workers. Dozens of worksites. One demand: FAIR CONTRACT NOW.

Here's how you can help build August 31:

• RSVP: Click the link here to see a map of scheduled walkouts, and then RSVP to a walkout near you. Remember, it doesn’t need to be your worksite or employer. Folks who work remotely are welcome at any walkout. 
   
• Bring your coworkers: Don't just register yourself. Talk to the people you work with and ask them to register and join you. Tell them to textFAIR to 237-263 or to visit wfse.org/fair-contractfor the RSVP links.
   
• Show up: On August 31, step out together and make our numbers impossible to miss.

What is a walkout? This action takes place during your lunch break or scheduled leave/vacation. Members will come together outside their worksites to demonstrate to the administration, our employers, and the bargaining table that we are organized, engaged, and prepared to act together. 

Our power has always been in our numbers. On August 31, let's put those numbers on display. Learn more here.

#2. They’re even rejecting common-sense cost savings 

Unfortunately, the state’s approach has remained remarkably consistent. It feels like they’re saying no just for the sake of saying no. 

They’re even rejecting proposals that would save money.

• Zero on Economics: Management has repeatedly maintained their position that there is "not a dime" available for general wage increases, offering zero financial relief during a tough economic climate when recruiting and retaining workers should be a priority.
• No Significant Changes on Priority Working Conditions: Despite maintaining their position that no money is available, management is not moving in significant ways on our non-economic priorities either.
• Rejecting Common-Sense Cost Savings: Not only are they refusing to invest in the workers who keep Washington running, or to improve our working conditions, but they are also rejecting cost-saving measures that would help ease budget concerns. The state claims they cannot afford basic investments or sensible solutions, yet they turn down practical ideas that save money and improve efficiency.

President Yestramski’s Message to the Governor’s Team

“I personally have never felt this frustrated and disrespected,” said WFSE President Mike Yestramski yesterday to the governor’s team at the negotiating table.

“Has anyone in this administration actually spoken to a state employee on the ground about their job and trying to make ends meet, or are they too busy doing photo ops and press conferences?”

“I am not going to give a terrible agreement to our members and tell them, 'Oh well, the state can't manage their budget, so you have to take this.' Our members are frustrated and ready for action. And if the governor is not going to listen to you taking this message from us, then he will hear directly from our members."

Don’t Fall for the False Choice: Layoffs versus Raises

We know many of you are feeling the pinch, and questions about the state budget are on everyone's mind. 

If you’re worried about losing your job to this budget crisis, know that you’re not alone.

But let’s be completely clear: the state has more options than just layoffs or better pay for state workers.

While state workers face constant pressure, layoffs, and a lack of investment, the administration continues to prioritize external appearances and spending choices elsewhere over the people who deliver public services every single day.

Budgets are a statement of priorities, and the workforce has not been prioritized for a long, long time. We are living with the impacts of those decisions.

It’s true that our state is facing a very serious budget shortfall, but pitting layoffs versus livable wages is exactly how the state would love for our members to frame this round of negotiations. 

In fact, this is a common tactic used to undermine the power of unions or convince workers to not unionize. Making people afraid to fight for what they deserve is an effective way to make us forget how much power we really do have.

We are 52,000 strong. Our voices DO matter, and we’ll do whatever it takes to make sure we are heard.

Our walkout in the last round of bargaining made a real, concrete impact. It moved the needle when movement at the table seemed impossible. It brought thousands of us together to overcome what seemed like insurmountable odds.

Reach out to your coworkers, share what’s happening, and make sure everyone knows that management is offering nothing substantive. Tell them to text FAIR to 237-263 and to show up at a walkout on August 31st to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us for a fair deal.

We are stronger together, and our voices are loudest when we use them as one. 

Thank you for everything you do for your coworkers, your families, and your communities.