Happy Spring Friends and Colleagues! Here’s a recap of the 2016 legislative session and tips on how YOU can help advance policy for Washington women and families in the coming months.
Legislative Recap
The 60-day legislative session ended on March 10th. Despite early hopes, in the end, outcomes were disappointing. You can read more about how our three priorities (Family and Medical Leave Insurance, Equal Pay and Pregnancy Accommodations) fared in Olympia in the context of Women’s History Month in Marilyn’s blog
Take Action During The Election
If you’re feeling as disappointed as we are with our progress so far this year — then get busy! It is election season after all, and you have the chance to make a difference in who will represent you in Olympia in 2017. The most important thing you can do: Ask your candidates where they stand!
This link leads you to questions you can ask at candidate forums, legislative meetings, community events and legislative district meetings. If you are pleased (or not pleased) with the response, post on our Facebook page, and let us know if candidates need follow-up information.
The most exciting initiative of the season
Raise Up Washington is leading the effort on Initiative 1433, by far the most exciting state ballot initiative of the season. It will allow all workers in the state to earn paid sick leave, and increase the minimum wage in 4 steps to $13.50 by 2020!
The campaign is running a volunteer only (!) signature gathering effort to collect over 250,000 signatures by the beginning of summer. YOU can help! Use this linkto volunteer to gather signatures, or contact Samantha at Raise Up Washington: 206-709-1313 (office) or 206-595-4668 (mobile).
Washington Work and Family Coalition 