News

Capacity, Not Closures! DOC Reentry Centers Provide Second Chances

The proposed closures would negatively impact those who are in most need of these services , result in increased recidivism (a 2007 study showed Washington’s reentry centers lead to at least a 2.8% reduction in recidivism), cost the state more money (research conducted by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy indicates that reentry programs have a positive cost/benefit impact; for every dollar spent, $3.82 is returned to the state.), and threaten the capacity of our community custody system when the need for more capacity is rising.

DOC Update - Zev Firearms and More

On December 12th, DOC Leadership met with management for the Statewide Union Management Communication Committee (SUMCC).

2024: A Year of Solidarity

This year, we took on many challenges to become stronger as a union, protect our jobs, and ensure our families have the best futures possible. We aren't stopping there.

Worried about the Budget Crisis? Here's the latest

If you're worried about the pending budget shortfall, here's what you need to know.

We’ve known about the budget crunch since June, and here’s the good news. We’re ahead of the game.

Our members have already taken two crucial steps to limit how the downturn will affect the 52,000 public workers our union represents:

#1. We’ve already won an agreement from our employers to give us a 5% raise over the next two years.

Fund our Contracts and Jobs: Register for your 2025 WFSE Lobby Day

During contract negotiations., our employers didn't want to spend a dime on compensation given the budget shortfall. We walked out for Washington won great contracts. Now we need to convince our elected officials to fund our contract.

During Walkout for Washington, Thousands of WFSE Members Walk Out for Fair Contract

On Tuesday, September 10, thousands of WFSE members at over 130 worksites walked out of their jobs to draw attention to the need for a fair contract.

Two days following the walkouts, tentative agreements for 2025-27 contracts began rolling in. 

Food Banks and Frustration: University of Washington Workers Demand Better

Months into bargaining with the University of Washington, WFSE members feel disrespected by UW’s resistance towards better pay and benefits for the staff that keep the university clean, safe, and functioning.

“Meeting with management, talking about kind of how things are done, management isn’t on the same page about how things are done at the medical center versus the main campus,” said Erik Hellen, a food service worker at UW and WFSE bargaining team member.

Vote NO on Initiative 2109: Protect Our Raises and Our Schools

Return to WFSE Votes landing page

We need to defend our ability to secure raises and our state’s childcare and schools.

Vote NO on Initiative 2117: Protect Jobs and the Climate Commitment Act

Return to WFSE Votes landing page

Heroes of the Gray Fire: WFSE Members Hold the Line

When a fast-moving fire threatened hundreds of residents at two state-run hospitals, WFSE members stepped up and saved lives. This kind of selflessness and dedication defines our members’ work but requires well-staffed facilities and pay that keeps these workers on the job.

Not a WFSE member? Join our union here!