A Real Bargain

Tumwater, Washington

Washington Gov. Gary Locke (D) signed collective bargaining into law as Washington Federation of State Employees/AFSCME Council 28’s Pres. Duwane Huffaker and Exec. Director Greg Devereux celebrated with a group of union and legislative dignitaries. Huffaker lauded Rep. Sandra Romero (D): "She guided this bill through her committee and onto the floor and into history." After a 15-year struggle, SHB 1268 finally gives state employees the right to bargain over wages and benefits. Council 28 expects to organize thousands of new members under the law. The union is starting the education process with interactive, "streaming media" presentations on the impact of collective bargaining.