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.
In June 2017 the Office of Financial Management Labor Relations Section sent WFSE formal notice of their intent to implement the class study, which WFSE responded to by filing a “demand to bargain.” This ensures our Union has a voice in the impacts of this study throughout the process. You can find previous IT Class Study updates here: https://gg.wfse.org/class-study-it.
When AFSCME members stand together, we have power in numbers. Together, we can defend our freedom to take our loved ones to the doctor when they get sick and retire with dignity some day. Together, we have the power to make our voices heard at work and in our democracy. That’s our AFSCME Agenda.
WFSE’s custodial members at Bellevue College (Local 304) petitioned the Board of Trustees April 25 to rescind what would be the third shift change in less than 18 months.