SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6815
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 February 3, 2010
Title: An act relating to health care benefits for marine employees of the department of transportation.
Brief Description: Concerning health care benefits for marine employees of the department of transportation.
Sponsors: Senator Haugen; by request of Office of Financial Management.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/03/10.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Janice Baumgardt (786-7319)
Background: Under current law, Washington State Ferries (WSF) employees who are represented by certain collective bargaining units may negotiate for health care plans and state contributions for health benefits. In the past, separate negotiations have not taken place; instead, the bargaining units have agreed to the health care benefits negotiated for other state employee unions.
Summary of Bill: WSF employees may no longer negotiate for health care plans and must negotiate for state contributions for health benefits with the super coalition of other state employee unions already doing so.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 2, 2010.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Office of Financial Management (OFM) worked with the Maritime unions on this legislation. This bill is an important step that will bring all employees to one table and give the marine employee unions a voice at that table.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Peter Bogdanoff, Governor's Office, OFM; Gordon Baxter, Inlandboatmans' Union, Masters Mates and Pilots, Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, Puget Sound Metal Trades Council, OPEIUS.