The bill amends RCW 41.56.530 to enhance the criteria used by arbitration panels when determining wages, hours, and conditions of employment for uniformed personnel. It introduces new considerations for the panel, including a comparison of wages, hours, and conditions of employment with similar personnel on the west coast of the United States, as well as the financial ability of the employer to meet the compensation and benefit provisions of collective bargaining agreements. These considerations apply to various categories of employees, including those employed by city or town governing bodies and public fire departments.

Additionally, the bill specifies that for child care providers and personnel providing services to vulnerable populations, the panel should also consider factors such as child care subsidy rates and the state's financial capacity to support compensation agreements. The amendments aim to ensure that the arbitration process is informed by relevant economic conditions and the financial realities of employers, while also addressing the interests of the public and the stability of the workforce in critical service areas.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 41.56.530