The bill amends RCW 41.80.200 to extend interest arbitration rights to certain employees of the Washington Department of Corrections, specifically those covered by chapter 41.06 RCW, while removing the exclusion of management service employees from this provision. The legislation aims to ensure dedicated services in the supervision of criminal offenders by providing an alternative means for resolving disputes through interest arbitration. The bill outlines the procedures for negotiations, mediation, and arbitration, including timelines for initiating negotiations and the appointment of mediators and arbitrators.

Key changes include the deletion of the exclusion of Washington management service employees from interest arbitration rights, allowing these employees to participate in the arbitration process. The bill also specifies the factors that arbitrators must consider when making decisions, such as the financial ability of the department to pay, comparisons of wages and conditions with similar state employers, and the overall compensation of department employees. Additionally, it establishes that the arbitrator's decision is final and binding, although it is not binding on the legislature unless funds are approved for implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 41.80.200
Bill as Passed Legislature: 41.80.200
Session Law: 41.80.200