SENATE BILL REPORT

ESHB 2267

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of March 12, 2009

Title: An act relating to protecting the collective bargaining rights of certain exempt employees.

Brief Description: Protecting the collective bargaining rights of certain exempt employees.

Sponsors: House Committee on Ways & Means (originally sponsored by Representatives Conway, Haigh, Hunt and Kenney).

Brief History: Passed House: 3/10/09, 61-34.

Committee Activity: Ways & Means:

SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS

Staff: Steve Jones (786-7440)

Background: The salaries and wages of state employees in positions that are classified under the State Civil Service Act are subject to collective bargaining agreements. The salaries and wages of other nonelected employees, exempted from the civil service laws, are determined by their employing agency, the Governor, or the state Department of Personnel.

However, some state employees are in positions exempt under the State Civil Service Act but are allowed to collectively bargain for salaries and wages. These categories of employees include State Convention and Trade Center employees, community college academic faculty, four-year college and university academic faculty, the marine employees of the state ferry system, and employees granted collective bargaining rights under the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC).

Under chapter 5, Laws of 2009 (Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5460), for a period of 12 months beginning February 18, 2009, state agencies are prohibited from granting salary or wage increases to any employees who are exempt from classification under the State Civil Service Act.

Summary of Bill: The 12-month salary freeze does not apply to salary and wage increases under collective bargaining agreements with State Convention and Trade Center employees, community college academic faculty, four-year college and university academic faculty, the marine employees of the state ferry system, and employees granted collective bargaining rights under the PERC.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.