Interpreters United (WFSE) is a member-run union of interpreters who work Medicaid and Social Services appointments—the first and only union representing freelance interpreters.
Now, thanks to our union, L&I interpreters also have the right to organize and negotiate a better future for their jobs, families and communities.
Together, we have the power to negotiate:
- State-Funded Health Insurance
- Fair Appointment Distribution
- Minimum Hourly Pay Rates
- Protection Against Clawbacks
- Reimbursement for Late Cancellations/No-shows
- And more!
It's about respect and a voice in our profession. If you take L&I appointments, sign our I'm Voting for Interpreters United (WFSE) petition, and we'll be a step closer to forming a union.
What is Interpreters United (WFSE)?
We’re part of WFSE, the largest union of state employees, representing 46,000 members in Washington State and AFSCME, which represents 1.6 million members nationwide.
Members of Interpreters United (WFSE) bargain contracts that improve the lives of members.
Our Achievements
- Fixed a corrupt system
- Doubled wages over 10 years
- Negotiated up to 75% reimbursement for late cancellations/ no-shows
- Passed a new law in 2020 to gain the right for all freelance interpreters to bargain health care benefits
- Passed a new law in 2018 that gave L&I Interpreters the right to unionize
- Supported interpreters through the COVID-19 pandemic
- Fighting to stop the offshoring of appointments
