SB 6486-S.E - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Grants collective bargaining for postdoctoral and clinical employees at the University of Washington and Washington State University.

 
VETO MESSAGE ON ESSB 6486

March 30, 2012

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 2, Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6486 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to collective bargaining for postdoctoral researchers at certain state universities."

Section 2 provides this act is null and void if specific funding is not provided in the omnibus appropriations act. A veto of this section is necessary to ensure collective bargaining rights for postdoctoral and clinical employees at the University of Washington and Washington State University. Further, if specific funding is not provided in the omnibus appropriations act, the administrative costs associated with the collective bargaining can be paid within existing funds or allocated to the funds that support the employees, many of which are not within the State General Fund.

For this reason, I have vetoed Section 2 of Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6486.

With the exception of Section 2, Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6486 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Christine Gregoire
Governor