Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1842

Introduced
2/22/23  

Caption

Addressing salary comparisons for ferry system collective bargaining units.

Impact

If passed, HB 1842 would have a significant impact on collective bargaining practices related to state ferry system employees. It would modify existing labor laws concerning how salary information is shared among collective bargaining units, ultimately aiming to create a more equitable environment for negotiations. This change may increase job satisfaction and retention among ferry system employees by addressing disparities in pay and enhancing their leverage in negotiations with management.

Summary

House Bill 1842 aims to address salary comparisons for collective bargaining units within the ferry system. This legislation is intended to ensure fair compensation practices by allowing employees to obtain relevant salary data that can be used for collective bargaining negotiations. The bill is seen as a measure to enhance transparency in pay structures and promote equitable treatment of workers in the ferry sector, which is a critical area for state transportation services. By focusing on salary comparison, the bill seeks to empower employees in their negotiating processes, encouraging fair wages based on industry standards and collective agreements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1842 is generally positive among labor groups and employee advocacy organizations. Supporters believe that the bill represents a step towards better working conditions and fairer compensation for ferry workers, while also promoting accountability and transparency within state employment practices. Conversely, some concerns have been raised regarding potential administrative burdens and the implications this data sharing may have on future negotiations if salary information becomes public knowledge.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1842 include concerns from management about the practical implications of disclosing salary comparisons and how this might affect future labor relations. Critics argue that while the intent behind the bill is noble, it could lead to complications in negotiations if sensitive salary information is leaked or misused. There is also a debate regarding the necessity of such a bill—whether current practices adequately protect the rights of ferry workers or if further legislative intervention is needed.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1264

Concerning the salaries of ferry system collective bargaining units.

WA HB1841

Addressing the Washington state ferries' workforce shortages.

WA HB1831

Addressing the Washington state ferries' workforce shortages.

WA HB1846

Addressing vessel procurement at the Washington state ferries.

WA SB5760

Addressing vessel procurement at the Washington state ferries.

WA SB5503

Concerning public employee collective bargaining processes.

WA HB1141

Concerning collective bargaining for agricultural cannabis workers.

WA SB5468

Concerning collective bargaining for agricultural cannabis workers.

WA SB5653

Concerning collective bargaining by fish and wildlife officers.

WA SB6194

Concerning state legislative employee collective bargaining.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.