We're pleased to report that today our Coalition of Unions achieved an agreement with the State on health care for State employees. Under RCW 41.80, state employee health care negotiations must be conducted at the coalition level. 

The agreement provides for a maintenance of the status quo percentages of the prior agreement. The 85% / 15% split between the employer and the employee on the weighted average of the premium is therefore maintained for the 2017-2019 biennium. 

The only change under this agreement is that a $25 gift certificate is available for eligible members who participate in the State’s WELL BEING assessment. 

We’re still waiting to receive our interest arbitration award from Arbitrator Howell Lankford, which deals with the other compensation elements of your contract, but this agreement on health care will be incorporated into your collective bargaining agreement as required under the law.