OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — A key labor organization says it opposes a new proposal to overhaul Washington state’s workers’ compensation system.
The Washington State Labor Council said Saturday morning that it can’t support any proposal that would offer settlements to injured workers. The group is asking lawmakers to reject Gov. Chris Gregoire’s new plan.
Gregoire had developed a limited settlements plan in hopes of finding a compromise that would suit all sides of the debate. Lawmakers are trying to curb the costs associated with people who get benefits for a prolonged period or have lifetime pensions.
Jim Justin, the governor’s legislative director, says labor opposition clearly complicates negotiations. On the other side, Republicans have voiced skepticism that the plan may not achieve enough savings.
Negotiators want to find agreement on the matter before dealing with the state budget.
