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House votes to dismantle
unemployment insurance compromise
A bill that would
drastically alter the state’s unemployment insurance (UI) system and
undo a decade of negotiations and agreements between labor and business
groups passed out of the Washington State House of Representatives today
on a 56-41 vote.
House Bill 2255 unravels a
major piece of a package adopted by the Legislature in 2003 to attract
aerospace industry production to Washington. The bipartisan legislation
from 2003 improved the balance and equity in Washington’s unemployment
system.
“The agreement we adopted in 2003 was a plan that helped all employers.
Instead of letting it run its course, we’re taking it away,” said
Rep. Doug Ericksen, R-Ferndale. “We’re sending a clear message to current
employers and those looking to relocate here that we are not committed
to a healthy business climate. The bottom line: this is going cost jobs
in Whatcom County.”
Ericksen also believes the
measure would disrupt the balance in the state’s UI system and create
winners and losers among workers who deserve equal benefits.
“Under this bill, a full-time nurse making $35,000 a year who is laid
off would receive $350 a week in unemployment benefits. Yet, a seasonal
worker who works six months a year and makes $35,000 would receive $496
a week in benefits,” said Ericksen. “So instead of a safety net, we’re
creating benefits that serve as supplemental income for some people.”
“Prior to 2003, we had one
of the top ten most expensive unemployment insurance systems in the
country. Since passing reforms, we still have one of the top ten most
expensive unemployment insurance systems in the country as Washington is
200 percent more expensive than the national average,” said Ericksen.
“This speaks volumes about our business climate.”
House Bill 2255 now moves
to the state Senate.
The legislative session
began on January 10 and is scheduled to run 105 days.
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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