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.
We're calling on our elected officials to ratify and fund our 2025-2027 union contracts to ensure the state can hire and retain the workforce necessary to provide the vital public services we all depend on.
As you may have heard, the governor's proposed budget includes the closure of Yakima Valley School and Rainier School. We can't lose these crucial community resources for Washingtonians who need them. Read on for actions you can take to stand with vulnerable community members and dedicated WFSE members and stop the closures.
Over 1,000 DCYF union members voted “no confidence” in the leadership of DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter. Here are three ways to capitalize on the strength we have right now!
Just three weeks after officially joining WFSE, several Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) employees were dismayed to learn their pay had been cut. After collecting over 1000 petition signatures, months of organizing, and a planned picket, these members won their fight to have their pay reinstated—and showed their coworkers what solidarity and union power can achieve.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders praised President Joe Biden in the wake of a debt ceiling deal that averts a default by the U.S. government on its debt while protecting the interests and priorities of working families and retirees.
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