Write Your Legislators – July 1st!
Despite the critical work we do in Washington’s higher education system, state employees continue to be paid less than others doing comparable work. Even worse, the state failed to fund WPEA contracts in the 2025 budget, leaving WPEA members even farther behind. Despite the state’s actions this fight is far from over. Come July 1st, we will see if the state decides to do the right thing, or, choose to leave us behind just as they did earlier this year.
In preparation, we’re launching a letter-writing campaign on July 1st to urge our local legislators to support a 2026 supplemental budget, and put the pressure on the Office of Financial Management and Governor Ferguson to do the right thing. By raising our collective voice, we can show lawmakers that we won’t accept bad faith bargaining or being left behind.
How to Take Action:
On July 1st
· Copy the sample message below or write your own using it as a guide.
· Find your legislator’s contact information here: https://app.leg.wa.gov/Rosters/MembersByDistrictAndCounties
· Our main contacts are under District 49. Additional contacts are under Districts 17 and 18.
· On July 1st, send your message via email (or call, if you prefer). You can send to all three legislators if you’re able! By sending our letters on the same day, we will ensure the visibility of our messages by flooding our legislator’s inbox’s.
· Spread the word! Encourage your coworker’s to write too. Every voice adds to the message!
Letter Sample:
“As a WPEA represented employee serving in Washington’s higher education system, I’m asking you to pledge your support for a 2026 supplemental budget that finally makes WPEA members whole. Because the legislature didn’t fund our contracts in 2025, our payscale has fallen behind those of other employees, despite performing essential public service that keeps our colleges running. We deserve equal recognition, fair compensation, and a budget that reflects the true value of our work.
Will you commit to supporting a 2026 supplemental budget that closes this pay gap and ensures parity for WPEA members?”
While Clark College is located in district 49, please feel free to message any of the other local legislators via the links below.
District 49: Senator Annette ClevelandRepresentative Sharon WylieRepresentative Monica Jurado Stonier
District 17: Senator Paul HarrisRepresentative Kevin WatersRepresentative David Stuebe
District 18: Senator Adrian CortesRepresentative Stephanie McClintockRepresentative John Ley
