HB 2220 - DIGEST

     Finds that the state must provide a fair and reasonable cost-of-living increase to ensure that the state attracts and retains the best employees for the citizens of Washington ensuring public safety, government efficiency, and program quality.

     Declares an intent that  state employees described in section 2 of this act receive an annual salary cost-of-living increase identical to the cost-of-living increase for school district and community college employees pursuant to Initiative Measure No. 732.

     Requires the office of financial management to calculate and include an appropriation to fund this annual salary cost-of-living increase in the biennium budget proposal to the legislature under chapter 43.88 RCW.  Any funded cost-of-living increase shall be included in the salary base used to determine cost-of-living increases for all state employees in subsequent years.