WA state workers OK new contract with retroactive pay hikes

Washington state government and community college employees have ratified a new contract to recover missed pay raises, with over 90% of the Washington Public Employees Association's nearly 5,300 members voting in favor. The approved contract secures a 3% retroactive pay increase and a 2% hike effective July 1, 2026. Association president Amanda Hacker highlighted the ongoing struggle for fair wages and called on state lawmakers to ensure funding in the next budget. A spokesman for the Office of Financial Management stated that the agreements will be reviewed for financial feasibility. Employees from 14 community colleges and nine state agencies will benefit from the ratified contract.

The previous agreement was rejected last fall, which delayed these raises until this new contract was approved. If funded, the contract will take effect at the start of the next fiscal year. The agreements also outline eligibility for retroactive pay for various employee circumstances.