Washington interpreters demand state address more than 280K in missed payments

Interpreters for Washington’s Department of Labor and Industries have filed a lawsuit claiming they are owed more than $280,000 in unpaid payments from over 3,500 invoices dating back to 2021. These interpreters assist injured workers covered by self-insured employers, which are responsible for paying for medical services including interpretation. The union, Interpreters United, argues that the Department of Labor and Industries has not enforced payment obligations from these employers, leading to a growing backlog of unpaid work. Some interpreters have ceased their services due to frustrations over non-payment, with union president Quan Tran stating he has not worked with the agency for over a year. Labor and Industries spokesperson Matt Ross emphasized the agency's commitment to ensuring interpreters receive the compensation they are owed.

The agency's new vendor, SOS International, has pledged to fulfill its contractual obligations regarding interpreter payments. The situation highlights ongoing issues with wage theft and payment enforcement within the state's labor system. The union secured its first contract with the state last year, which included a 5% pay increase, but interpreters still face significant challenges.