Weekly News Update — April 11, 2025

WA Union Marches Into State Capitol as Budget Bargaining Boils Over

On Wednesday, April 9th, protesters from the Washington State Federation of State Employees gathered at the Capital to send a clear message of opposition to Gov. Bob Ferguson’s decision to cut wages and add furlough days despite his previous promise to honor a 5% wage increase over the next two years. Several State Senators joined the protest in support of Washington workers. Read more.

Seattle Children’s to Pay $16 Million In Meal Break Lawsuit

Seattle Children’s will pay $16M to settle a class action lawsuit for denied meal breaks to thousands of workers, current and former. This settlement follows an order from December, when the hospital paid $21 M for reports of racial discrimination in the workplace. Read more.

Seattle City Light Investigation: Group Worked Drunk, Sexually Harassed Co-Workers

A two-year investigation of Seattle City Light found 40 workers to have been drinking on the job, stocking alcohol on trucks, forcing apprentices to buy alcohol, and sexually harassing female coworkers. The new CEO, Dawn Lindell, has made it clear that any future reports of misconduct will not be ignored, and harassment will not be tolerated. Read more.

If you have faced harassment or discrimination in the workplace, call Emery | Reddy today to see how we might be able to help you.